Government Assures Fuel Security Amid Reports of Stock Adequacy

Government Takes Measures to Ensure Fuel Supply Amid West Asia Crisis

The Centre has taken steps to ramp up fuel supply measures amid the ongoing West Asia crisis, with natural gas now being supplied at 100 per cent for domestic PNG and CNG users and around 80 per cent for industrial consumers, according to the Petroleum Ministry.

Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Sujata Sharma addressed an inter-ministerial briefing on the measures taken by the government. She stated that natural gas supply is at 100 per cent for domestic PNG consumers and transport (CNG), and around 80 per cent for industrial users on the grid.

To minimize inconvenience to the public, the government has taken steps at every level. Despite imports remaining impacted due to the geopolitical situation, the Government of India is making every effort to ensure that domestic supplies continue without any disruption.

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The supply of domestic LPG is reported to be smooth, with no dry-out observed at any distributor. However, due to certain rumours, panic buying has been observed at some distributorships. Sharma urged consumers to avoid visiting distributors physically and opt for online booking, as home delivery is available.

The government has also been increasing supply to the commercial segment. Commercial LPG supply has been restored up to 70 per cent, with over 1,47,000 tonnes of commercial LPG sold in the month of April so far.

Demand Management and Fuel Availability

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Steps have been taken to ensure an uninterrupted supply, including rationalizing booking. As a result, domestic supplies of petrol and diesel are running smoothly, with no cuts. Domestic LPG cylinders are also being supplied without disruption.

Fuel availability across the country remains adequate, with no dry-out reported at any petrol pump. Inventories remain comfortable, with crude inventories sufficient, cargoes secured, and refineries operating at optimal capacity.

The government has also taken steps to support industry by boosting additional fuels such as coal and kerosene to ensure industries face no shortages. For key sectors, including pharma and chemical, C3 and C4 molecules have been allocated, with over 6,400 tonnes of propylene sold by refineries since April 9.

Sharma reiterated that prices have not been raised and urged consumers to avoid panic buying. "Petrol and diesel prices have not been increased, so people are requested to avoid panic buying," she said.