India's LPG Supply Stable Despite Geopolitical Concerns, Panic Booking Rises
Delhi: The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has confirmed that the supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) in India remains stable and uninterrupted, even as geopolitical tensions persist globally. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery) at the ministry, stated that no stockouts have been reported so far, providing reassurance to consumers across the nation.
Sharp Increase in Panic Booking
However, Sharma highlighted a concerning trend: instances of panic booking for LPG cylinders have risen sharply in recent days. Bookings, which were approximately 7.5 to 7.6 million yesterday, have now surged to nearly 8.8 million. This spike indicates growing consumer anxiety, despite the stable supply situation.
Sharma emphasized the urgent need for calm among consumers, urging people not to hoard LPG cylinders unnecessarily. She explained that hoarding can disrupt the normal distribution chain and create artificial shortages, even when adequate stocks are available.
Ministry's Monitoring and Assurance
The Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas continues to monitor the LPG supply chain closely to ensure smooth operations. Sharma assured that the ministry maintains sufficient stocks to meet regular demand across all regions of India. She reiterated that the government is committed to preventing any disruptions and keeping consumers informed about the actual supply status.
In summary, while LPG availability remains robust, the rise in panic bookings poses a challenge that requires public cooperation to maintain stability in the market.
