Centre Clarifies on LPG Shortage

Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri has clarified that there is no shortage of LPG or domestic cooking gas cylinders in the country. He urged consumers not to panic over rumours and reports suggesting a shortage. Puri said domestic LPG production had been increased in line with consumer demand. According to his statement, domestic production, which was earlier around 34,000 tonnes, has now been raised to around 55,000–56,000 tonnes. While the situation around the Strait of Hormuz has had some impact, the government has taken measures to ensure uninterrupted domestic LPG supplies. He also said steps have been taken to prevent illegal stockpiling and black marketing.

Puri advised consumers to use digital platforms to book LPG cylinders instead of unnecessarily visiting distributors and standing in queues. He said consumers could book cylinders through mobile applications and that deliveries would be made to their homes. The minister also said panic buying triggered by rumours had pushed daily LPG bookings from an average of around 52 lakh to nearly 90 lakh for several days. The distribution system was subsequently rationalised to control panic bookings. The government has also advised consumers to avoid unnecessary LPG bookings and rely on official information.