LPG Bookings Decline After Panic Surge; Government Urges Commercial Users to Switch to PNG
LPG bookings across India have shown a significant decline for the first time following days of sharp increases driven by panic buying. According to recent government data, approximately 77 lakh LPG bookings were recorded on Saturday, a notable drop from the 88.8 lakh bookings reported on March 13. This reduction indicates the initial signs of easing panic demand amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
Government Assures Stable Fuel Supplies Amid Concerns
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has confirmed that adequate stocks of petrol, diesel, and LPG are available nationwide. Refineries are operating at high capacity, with sufficient crude inventories maintained to ensure uninterrupted supply. Officials have stated that no cases of fuel dry-outs have been reported at retail outlets or LPG distributorships, urging citizens to avoid panic buying as distribution networks remain fully operational.
Push for PNG Adoption to Ease LPG Demand Pressure
To alleviate pressure on LPG availability, the government is actively encouraging commercial consumers in major cities to switch to piped natural gas (PNG) connections. These connections are supplied through city gas distribution networks, offering a more stable alternative. A review meeting was held on March 14 with regulators and gas distribution companies to assess the status of PNG connections and accelerate LPG-to-PNG conversions.
Digitalization and Monitoring Efforts Intensify
Online LPG bookings have risen, now accounting for nearly 87% of total bookings, up from about 84% previously. This increase is attributed to oil marketing companies pushing digital platforms to streamline distribution. Additionally, state governments have enhanced monitoring of the supply situation, with 22 states and Union Territories establishing control rooms to track the availability and distribution of petrol, diesel, and LPG. High-level meetings have been conducted to prevent panic booking and ensure continuity of supply.
Enforcement Actions and Regulatory Measures
Enforcement agencies have intensified actions against hoarding and black marketing, conducting raids in several states. Officials from public sector oil marketing companies are carrying out surprise inspections at LPG distributorships to prevent irregularities and ensure fair distribution. States such as Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan have issued orders regulating the allocation of non-domestic LPG cylinders in line with government guidelines, prioritizing essential services and institutions.
Supply Stabilization and Production Maximization
The government has introduced measures to stabilize supply and demand, including rationalizing LPG refill booking intervals to 25 days in urban areas and up to 45 days in rural regions. Domestic LPG production from refineries has been maximized to increase availability. Officials emphasize that the Centre remains focused on ensuring uninterrupted LPG supply to households and priority sectors like hospitals and educational institutions, despite global energy market disruptions due to escalating conflicts in West Asia.
Call for Reliance on Official Information Channels
Authorities have urged consumers to rely on official information channels and avoid panic bookings, stressing that adequate fuel stocks are available. The government continues to monitor the situation closely, implementing strategies to maintain energy security and prevent supply chain disruptions.
