Petroleum Ministry: LPG Supply Concerns Acknowledged, CNG and PNG Stable

Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, shared a comprehensive report on Friday regarding the current availability of fuel and gas in the country. According to the official statement, the central government has acknowledged that LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) supply has become a matter of concern in certain regions. The ministry clarified that while a slight shortage is being experienced, no 'dry out' messages have been received from gas distributors. The government has urged citizens not to panic, emphasizing that measures are being implemented to stabilize the distribution network.

Surge in Demand Due to Panic Booking

Data released by the ministry indicates that the primary cause of the current LPG supply strain is a sudden spike in panic bookings. Under normal circumstances, daily LPG cylinder bookings across the country range between 50-55 lakh. However, in recent days, this figure has surged to 75-76 lakh. Officials stated that this increase is driven by consumer anxiety rather than an actual rise in consumption. This sudden load on the supply chain has led to logistical challenges, which the government is currently addressing through increased monitoring.

Government Interventions and Production Hike

To mitigate the supply gap, the government has Importantly increased domestic LPG production. According to the ministry, production has been ramped up by 40% compared to the levels recorded on March 5.8 crore liters) of kerosene to states for distribution to offset the demand for cooking fuel. In a strategic move to manage commercial demand, Coal India has been directed to ensure a steady supply of coal to hotels and restaurants, encouraging them to reduce their reliance on LPG cylinders.

Prioritization of Essential Services

The Ministry has established a priority protocol for the distribution of available LPG stocks, while hospitals and hostels are being given top priority to ensure that healthcare services and student accommodations remain unaffected by the supply fluctuations. For domestic consumers, the government is working to streamline the delivery process to ensure that genuine requirements are met despite the surge in bookings. Authorities reiterated that the focus is on managing the distribution flow rather than addressing a total lack of reserves.

Stability in CNG and PNG Networks

In contrast to the LPG situation, the government confirmed that the supply of CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and PNG (Piped Natural Gas) remains solid and unaffected. There have been no cuts in CNG supply, and the infrastructure for PNG delivery to households continues to operate at full capacity. The government has actively encouraged citizens to shift from LPG to PNG connections where available. 5 crore PNG consumers in India, and officials noted that the existing infrastructure can easily accommodate an additional 60 lakh families.

Fuel Reserves and Safety Advisories

Regarding liquid fuels, the government assured the public that there is no shortage of petrol and diesel in the country. Adequate stocks are available at all retail outlets, and supply chains remain functional, while however, the ministry issued a specific safety advisory, urging the public not to purchase or store fuel in open containers or bottles due to fire hazards. The government emphasized that there is sufficient fuel for transportation and private use, and citizens should refrain from hoarding or engaging in unsafe storage practices.