Centre cracks down on LPG black marketing; over 2,000 cylinders seized

Amid ongoing developments in West Asia, the Union government on Monday said that enforcement agencies have intensified raids across states and Union Territories to curb hoarding and black marketing of LPG, with over 2,000 cylinders seized in the past 24 hours.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said more than 2,500 raids were conducted nationwide under the provisions of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955 and the LPG Control Order, 2000, which empower state governments to act against hoarding and ensure smooth supply of essential fuels.

Advertisement

The Ministry noted that enforcement efforts need further strengthening in certain states and regions, including Bihar, Jharkhand, Kerala, and parts of the North-East.

At a joint inter-ministerial briefing, Sujata Sharma assured that the country has adequate fuel reserves to meet current demand. She stated that all refineries are operating at high capacity with sufficient crude inventories, while domestic LPG production has been ramped up to support consumption.

The government also highlighted that 100 per cent supply of natural gas is being maintained for domestic consumers and CNG transport, with nearly 95 per cent of LPG bookings conducted online on Sunday.

To stabilise domestic availability, the government has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre and imposed export levies of ₹21.5 per litre on diesel and ₹29.5 per litre on aviation turbine fuel (ATF).

Sharma noted instances of panic buying triggered by rumours in some areas, leading to crowding at fuel outlets. However, she emphasised that adequate stocks of petrol and diesel are available across the country and urged citizens not to believe misinformation.

The Centre has also advised state governments to actively disseminate accurate information through press briefings to prevent panic and ensure orderly fuel distribution.