New Delhi: The government has urged people not to panic book cooking gas cylinders, stating that domestic production of LPG has increased significantly and supplies remain sufficient to meet demand across the country.
Officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said domestic LPG output has risen by about 30 percent, ensuring that the entire supply is currently being directed toward household consumers. The assurance comes as booking requests for cooking gas cylinders have sharply increased in recent days.
According to the ministry, daily LPG bookings have climbed to around 75.7 lakh compared to the earlier average of 55.7 lakh before the recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East. Authorities said the sudden rise indicates panic buying triggered by concerns over disruptions to global energy supplies.
The government appealed to citizens to avoid spreading rumours and unnecessary fears regarding cooking gas availability. Officials emphasised that adequate arrangements are in place to maintain a steady supply across the country.
India traditionally imports nearly 60 percent of its LPG requirement, with a large share transported through the Strait of Hormuz. Nearly 90 percent of those imports usually pass through this narrow route that links the Gulf with the Arabian Sea and carries a significant portion of the world’s oil and LPG shipments.
Recent hostilities in the region following strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran have raised fears about disruptions along the route. Several vessels passing through the area have reportedly been attacked since the conflict escalated, further increasing concerns about energy transport.
To address the situation, the government has directed an increase in domestic LPG production and formed a committee to monitor supplies and prepare diversion plans if required. Officials also said there is no immediate concern regarding crude oil availability, noting that India now imports oil from around 40 countries and current inflows exceed the country’s daily requirement of about 5.5 million barrels.
Meanwhile, Iran has rejected reports suggesting that it has allowed Indian flagged tankers to move through the Strait of Hormuz.
