No need for panic buying of LPG, domestic refineries operating at full capacity, assures govt

The government on Friday appealed to the people not to give credence
to rumours and refrain from engaging in panic buying of LPG in the
wake of the ongoing crisis in West Asia.

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry also clarified that India
currently has a crude oil refining capacity of 258 million metric
tonnes, and domestic refineries are operating at full capacity. “This
has made the country self-sufficient in the production of petrol and
diesel, reducing the need for imports of these fuels,” Sujata Sharma,
Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery) in the ministry, said, at
an inter-ministerial media briefing on the situation arising from the
conflict in West Asia.

Advertisement

The senior official said, “There is no need for panic booking; no
‘dry-out’ has been reported at any LPG distributor.”

She said the supply of piped natural gas (PNG) to households and
compressed natural gas (CNG) remained uninterrupted. Petrol and diesel
were also available in adequate quantities at retail outlets
nationwide.

’Given this situation, there is absolutely no need for
panic…Furthermore, regarding commercial consumers in our major urban
cities and centers—many of whom are currently facing difficulties due
to their reliance on LPG supplies—the Government of India is making
every effort to address their concerns. We appeal to all such
commercial consumers to contact their local CGD (City Gas
Distribution) network provider or their designated dealer to obtain a
PNG connection,’’ the official added.

Similarly, LPG supplies are also being provided to hospitals and
educational institutions. ‘’Domestic production of LPG has increased
by 30% as of today; compared to March 5th, our refineries are
currently producing 30% more LPG,’’ she added.

Regarding commercial cylinders, she said these have been placed at the
disposal of the state governments to facilitate priority distribution.
‘’We are requesting the state governments to determine the priority
criteria and ensure that these commercial cylinders effectively reach
the intended consumers.”

Rajesh Kumar Sinha, a senior official at the Ministry of Shipping,
said, “LPG carrier vessels have been accorded priority berthing at
major ports.

Regarding the ongoing crisis and the prevailing situation in the Gulf
region, he said, ‘’unfortunately, as I mentioned yesterday, three
casualties involving Indian seafarers have been reported. One seafarer
remains missing. Additionally, four seafarers sustained minor
injuries; however, all those who sustained injuries have been brought
out and are currently receiving medical treatment… The Ministry of
Ports, Shipping and Waterways continues to closely monitor the
prevailing maritime situation in the Persian Gulf region, which
remains continuously evolving.”