Patiala Witnesses Sharp Rise in Domestic LPG Bookings Amid Global Tensions
In a significant development, domestic LPG bookings in Patiala have experienced a nearly threefold increase since the onset of the West Asia conflict, according to officials from major oil companies. Despite this surge, supply levels have remained stable, with no disruptions reported for household consumers.
Data Reveals Spike in Panic Bookings
Representatives from Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) provided detailed figures highlighting the trend. Kamal Maheshwari, DGM of the Nabha LPG Bottling Plant, and Raghaw Gupta, Sales Manager (LPG), noted that while supply in March was consistent with January and February, panic bookings drove the spike.
Data shows pending bookings rose from 11,500 in January and 8,900 in February to 35,900 in March. Of these, approximately 24,400 bookings in the first fortnight were attributed to panic buying. Similarly, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) reported an increase from 4,000 in January and 3,500 in February to 11,527 in the first week of March, with nearly 7,527 classified as panic bookings.
Supply Stability and Government Guidelines
Officials emphasized that domestic LPG supply has not been affected, ensuring continued availability for households. However, in line with government guidelines, commercial LPG supply has been curtailed, with exceptions made for essential services such as healthcare and education sectors.
Administrative Actions and Crackdown on Misuse
The district administration convened a meeting on Thursday to review the supply and distribution of both domestic and commercial LPG in Patiala district. During the assessment, authorities focused on gas availability in hospitals, schools, and other educational institutions. They directed the Health and Education Departments to compile a list of large institutions with high gas consumption.
Authorities also stressed the importance of encouraging such institutions to shift to Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections. This move aims to ensure a more stable and uninterrupted supply, reducing reliance on LPG cylinders.
Efforts to Combat "Ghost Consumers"
In a related crackdown, the Food and Civil Supplies Department has taken action against misuse. Following raids in the district that led to the seizure of nearly 200 domestic LPG cylinders from commercial establishments, the department has written to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. They are seeking verification of several suspected "ghost consumers" to prevent further illegal usage.
This comprehensive approach by authorities highlights efforts to maintain supply integrity while addressing panic-driven demand and promoting sustainable energy alternatives like PNG.
