New Delhi, March 12: In the wake of global energy disruptions caused by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the Indian government has assured citizens that the domestic supply of LPG, petrol, diesel, kerosene, and natural gas remains stable. However, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, urged citizens to refrain from panic booking and to conserve fuel during this period of global uncertainty.
"There has been a significant rise in bookings due to panic. We urge citizens to avoid unnecessary panic and to make efforts to conserve fuel wherever possible," Sharma said during a press conference on energy security, addressing developments in West Asia.
Sharma explained that India imports nearly 60% of its LPG, with much of it previously sourced from the Strait of Hormuz, now closed for commercial shipping. "Today marks the 13th day of the conflict, and the Strait of Hormuz remains closed to commercial shipping. This is critical because we relied heavily on imports through this route. However, following government intervention, over 70% of our imports are now coming through alternative routes," she added.
She further emphasized that India’s refining capacity offers a significant buffer, as the country is the world’s fourth-largest refiner, processing nearly 55 million barrels of oil daily. "In terms of crude oil, the situation is quite comfortable," Sharma stated, noting that domestic refineries are ramping up LPG production following a directive issued on March 9 under the Essential Commodities Act. "We have increased domestic production from 25% to 28%," she added.
Sharma assured that the retail fuel network remains robust, with nearly 100,000 outlets operating nationwide without any disruptions. LPG distribution continues smoothly through a network of 25,000 distributors, delivering approximately 5 million cylinders daily. For commercial LPG, priority is being given to hospitals and educational institutions.
To manage supply effectively, the government has set up a three-member committee consisting of executive directors from oil marketing companies to oversee allocations. Additionally, state governments have been tasked with identifying beneficiaries to prevent hoarding and black marketing.
In response to the increased demand for fuel, the government is also promoting alternative fuel options. Kerosene allocations to states are being increased, and coal distribution is being enhanced for small and medium consumers. Furthermore, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change has instructed state pollution boards to temporarily permit the use of biomass, RDF pellets, kerosene, or coal in the hospitality and restaurant sectors for one month.
Senior officials from oil marketing companies are in daily contact with state governments to monitor fuel supply, maintain priority distribution, and enforce regulations. District-level committees have been set up to prevent the diversion of supplies.
The government’s coordinated efforts aim to ensure the continued availability of essential fuel and energy resources while maintaining public order during this period of global disruption.
