| Fuel supply stable amid West Asia conflict | | Centre warns against spreading rumours, panic buying |    | Early Times Report
Jammu, Mar 29: Amid the evolving situation in West Asia and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, the Government of India on Saturday assured that adequate stocks of petrol, diesel, and LPG are available across the country, urging citizens not to fall prey to rumours or indulge in panic buying.
In an official statement, the government said it is maintaining continuous monitoring and has initiated a series of measures to ensure stability in key sectors, including energy supply, maritime operations, and the safety of Indian nationals in the region.
The government said all refineries are operating at high capacity with sufficient crude inventories, while retail fuel outlets across the country remain fully functional.
“Petrol and diesel are available in adequate quantities at all outlets. Public is advised not to believe rumours,” the statement said.
However, panic buying triggered by misinformation was reported in some areas, leading to temporary crowding at fuel stations. Authorities reiterated that there is no shortage of fuel.
To stabilise domestic availability, the Centre has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre and imposed export levies on diesel and aviation turbine fuel (ATF).
Natural gas supply remains stable, with priority being given to domestic PNG and CNG transport sectors. Supplies to industrial and commercial users are being maintained at about 80% of average consumption.
Supply to urea plants is steady at 70–75% of recent averages, with additional LNG and RLNG cargoes being sourced to maintain continuity.
In a major push towards cleaner fuel, more than 2.9 lakh PNG connections—including domestic, commercial, hostel, and canteen categories—were provided during March.
The government has also fast-tracked approvals for Public Advisory Issued
The government urged citizens to avoid panic buying and rely only on official information.
People have been advised to:
Avoid unnecessary fuel purchases
Use digital platforms for LPG bookings
Opt for alternative fuels such as PNG and electric cooking
Conserve energy wherever possible
Overall Situation Under Control
While LPG supply has been affected due to geopolitical tensions, the government said there is no shortage at the consumer level.
Over 55 lakh LPG refills were delivered in a single day, with no reports of supply dry-out at distributorships.
To ease pressure, the Centre has increased commercial LPG allocation to up to 70% of pre-crisis levels, prioritising sectors such as hotels, restaurants, industries, and community kitchens.
The government has directed states and Union Territories to intensify enforcement against hoarding and black marketing under the Essential Commodities Act.
Nearly 2,900 raids were conducted across the country, with around 1,000 LPG cylinders seized in a single day.
Authorities have also been asked to conduct daily press briefings, set up control rooms, and counter misinformation through active monitoring of social media.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said maritime operations remain stable, with no congestion reported at Indian ports.
Two LPG carriers carrying around 94,000 metric tonnes of cargo have safely transited the region and are en route to India.
A total of 18 Indian-flagged vessels with 485 Indian seafarers are currently in the western Persian Gulf region, all of whom are reported safe.
The Ministry of External Affairs said it is closely monitoring the situation in West Asia, with the safety and welfare of Indian nationals as the top priority.
Indian missions in the region are operating 24x7 helplines and providing assistance to seafarers, students, and stranded nationals.
Since February 28, over 5.24 lakh passengers have returned to India from the region through regular and special flight operations. | | |
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