The government on Thursday said that the supply of LPG to households continues without disruption, even as global conditions impact logistics.
According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, online bookings for LPG have risen to 98 per cent, and no shortages have been reported at distributorships. The ministry said, “Supply of LPG to domestic households remains normal… and no dry-outs have been reported.”
It also added that 100 per cent supply is being ensured for domestic LPG, piped natural gas (PNG), and CNG for vehicles.
Technology helps prevent misuse
Officials said the use of Delivery Authentication Codes (DAC) has improved transparency in distribution. Currently, around 92 per cent of deliveries are being completed using DAC verification, helping prevent diversion of cylinders at the distributor level.
Consumers have also been encouraged to use digital booking platforms instead of visiting distributors.
Rising demand for PNG connections
The demand for PNG connections has increased significantly in recent months. Around 4.58 lakh PNG connections have been activated with over 5.1 lakh new customers registering since March. About 35,000 users have surrendered LPG connections and switched to PNG
States have been advised to speed up the process of providing new PNG connections to both households and commercial users.
Priority supply for essential sectors
The government has prioritised LPG supply for critical sectors, including:
-Hospitals and educational institutions
-Pharmaceutical, steel and automobile industries
-Agriculture and seed sectors
Additionally, the supply of 5 kg LPG cylinders for migrant workers has been doubled compared to early March levels. Since March 23, around 15.5 lakh small cylinders have been sold.
Commercial and auto LPG demand rises
Commercial LPG demand has remained strong, with over 1.42 lakh metric tonnes sold since March 14.
Auto LPG consumption has also increased, with public sector companies recording a 62 per cent rise in sales. The biggest increase has been seen in states like Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Rajasthan, and West Bengal.
Strict action against hoarding
To prevent black marketing and hoarding, authorities have stepped up enforcement across the country. These steps are aimed at ensuring fair distribution and preventing misuse.
-More than 2,500 raids were conducted in a single day
-Penalties were imposed on 238 LPG distributors
-63 distributorships have been suspended so far
The ministry has advised citizens not to panic or stockpile fuel. It said, “Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of petrol, diesel, and LPG as the government is making all efforts to ensure availability of petrol, diesel and LPG. Beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information,” reported the news agency.
People have also been encouraged to use alternative fuels such as PNG, electricity, kerosene, and coal to reduce pressure on LPG demand. Additional measures, including increased refinery output and longer booking intervals, have been introduced to manage supply efficiently.
(With IANS Inputs)