The Centre on Thursday urged citizens not to indulge in panic buying of petrol, diesel and LPG, saying that adequate stocks of fuel and cooking gas are available across the country despite the evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial media briefing held at the National Media Centre, officials from the Ministries of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and Information and Broadcasting outlined measures being taken to ensure uninterrupted fuel supply, smooth maritime operations and overall energy stability.
The government said 100 per cent supply is being maintained for domestic LPG, domestic PNG and CNG transport segments. During the last three days, around 1.39 crore LPG cylinders were delivered against bookings of nearly 1.40 crore cylinders, while over 49.7 lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered on Wednesday alone.
The government also advised citizens to avoid panic purchases and rely only on official sources for information. It further encouraged LPG consumers to use digital booking platforms and explore alternate fuels such as PNG and electric or induction cooktops.
Additionally, the government said all retail fuel outlets across the country are operating normally and there is no shortage of petrol or diesel. To shield consumers from the impact of rising global crude prices amid the West Asia crisis, the government said it has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre, while retail prices at PSU oil marketing company outlets remain unchanged.
As part of supply management measures, the government has increased refinery production, prioritised supply to hospitals and key sectors, and expanded the distribution of 5 kg Free Trade LPG cylinders for migrant labourers. Since April 3, PSU oil marketing companies have organised more than 11,870 awareness camps for 5 kg cylinders and sold over 2.10 lakh such cylinders.
The government also highlighted progress in PNG expansion, stating that since March 2026 around 7.03 lakh PNG connections have been gasified, infrastructure has been created for an additional 2.72 lakh connections and about 7.49 lakh customers have registered for new connections.
On the maritime front, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said two LPG carriers carrying cargo for India — SYMI and NV SUNSHINE — safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz and are expected to reach Kandla and New Mangalore on schedule.
According to the government, all 14 crew members onboard the Indian dhow HAJI ALI, which caught fire and sank in Omani waters on Wednesday, were safely rescued by the Omani Coast Guard.
The government said port operations across India remain normal and no other incidents involving Indian vessels or Indian seafarers have been reported in the past 72 hours.
