Indian Oil Corporation Denies LPG Shortage in Northeast India Amid Conflict Rumors
Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) has categorically stated that there is no domestic liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortage in the states of Assam and Manipur. This clarification comes in response to widespread rumors suggesting potential supply disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Assam's LPG Production and Supply Remain Robust
Amarjyoti Bordoloi, the chief general manager (LPG) of IOCL Assam, emphasized that the situation in Assam is completely normal. "There are rumors of a domestic LPG shortage in Assam due to the conflict in West Asia. The situation here is normal. Our refineries are producing enough LPG, and there is no scarcity," Bordoloi stated.
The state benefits from four operational refineries that collectively produce approximately 1,200 metric tons of LPG daily. Current stock levels are sufficient to meet demand for 11 to 13 days, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted supply chain.
Technical Glitch Causes Temporary Booking System Crash
Bordoloi acknowledged that the online booking system for domestic LPG cylinders experienced a temporary crash. This was attributed to an overwhelming surge in booking requests, which spiked to nearly ten times the usual volume. "However, the system has since been restored, and consumers can now book refills without panic," he reassured.
Consumers are advised to adhere to the standard 25-day gap rule between two consecutive bookings to maintain orderly distribution and prevent artificial shortages.
Detailed Consumption and Supply Figures for Northeast India
An IOCL source provided specific data on LPG consumption and supply in the northeastern region:
- The entire northeast requires 191,000 domestic cylinders (14.2 kg each) daily.
- Assam alone accounts for 134,000 of these cylinders per day.
- IOCL supplies 162,000 cylinders daily across the region, including 106,000 in Assam.
These figures underscore the corporation's capacity to meet regional demand effectively.
Manipur Officials Confirm Adequate Stock and Address Misinformation
In Manipur, K Bono Singh, the director of consumer affairs, food and public distribution, issued a statement labeling reports of LPG and petroleum shortages as "misleading." He clarified that a recent temporary disruption in LPG distribution was due to a technical issue at the national level involving the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) system.
"IOCL has clarified that the temporary disruption in LPG distribution over the past few days was due to a purely technical issue at the all-India level in the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) system. This issue has now been resolved and was in no way connected to the stock position of LPG in the state," Singh explained.
Authorities Urge Public Against Panic Buying and Hoarding
Both Assam and Manipur authorities have strongly advised consumers against panic buying or hoarding LPG and petroleum products. Such actions not only create unnecessary shortages but also pose significant safety risks, including potential accidents.
Singh emphasized, "The department urged consumers not to panic or hoard LPG and petroleum products, as such actions may lead to accidents and safety hazards." This call for calm is crucial to maintaining stable supply lines and public safety.
Overall, IOCL's assurances and the detailed production, stock, and supply data confirm that domestic LPG availability in Assam and Manipur remains secure, with no impact from external geopolitical tensions.
