Has the fear of LPG cylinders subsided? Bookings dropped by several lakhs in two days

Amid the escalating US-Iran conflict, the central government has stated that the country's supply of petrol, diesel, and cooking gas is completely secure. According to the government, domestic LPG refill bookings have declined in recent days. 

According to the latest data, LPG bookings in the country have dropped to approximately 7.7 million, compared to 8.88 million on March 13th. 

This means a decrease of approximately 1.2 million bookings in just two days. The government has clarified that there is no need for people to panic, as fuel supplies are continuing as normal.

Increased share of online bookings

The government stated that the use of digital means for LPG booking has increased rapidly. Approximately 87% of bookings are now online, compared to 84% previously. 

This increase is a result of oil marketing companies' initiatives to encourage people to book digitally. 

Campaigns are also underway to avoid long queues at LPG dealerships and to discourage overbooking. According to the government, all domestic refineries in the country are operating at full capacity and have adequate crude oil reserves.

There is no problem in meeting domestic demand.

The government maintains that India is self-sufficient in petrol and diesel production and that imports of these fuels are not necessary to meet domestic needs. 

Oil marketing companies have also stated that there have been no reports of fuel shortages at petrol pumps or LPG distributors across the country. Supplies of petrol, diesel, and LPG continue as normal.

Prioritizing the interests of consumers

The government stated that protecting the interests of domestic consumers is its priority. It is ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply, especially to homes and essential sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions. 

Several states and union territories, including Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan, have also issued guidelines regarding the allocation of non-domestic LPG.

Strict action against hoarding and black marketing

The government has reported complaints of hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders in some areas. To curb this, raids are being conducted in several states, including Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. 

Officials from public sector oil marketing companies are also conducting surprise inspections of LPG distributors to ensure smooth supply.

The government has appealed to people not to panic and overbook LPG. There are sufficient stocks of petrol, diesel, and gas in the country, and supplies will continue as normal.

Iran-Israel War