Government Appeals to 60 Lakh Households to Adopt PNG Amid LPG Supply Strain
In response to ongoing strains on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) availability, the Indian government on Friday made a significant appeal to nearly 60 lakh households across the country. Officials urged these households to switch to piped natural gas (PNG) connections as a measure to alleviate pressure on domestic cooking gas cylinders.
Addressing Supply Concerns and Panic Booking
At a press conference, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the petroleum ministry, emphasized that there is no crisis regarding domestic cooking gas cylinders. She advised consumers to avoid panic booking, which has seen a sharp increase recently. Sharma revealed that LPG cylinder bookings have surged from 57.5 lakh during pre-conflict days to 75.7 lakh on March 12, marking a 32% increase that reflects widespread anxiety among consumers.
"I urge people to avoid panic booking. We used to distribute 50 lakh cylinders every day earlier and are maintaining it now," Sharma stated, adding that consumers can conveniently book refills through digital modes including IVRS, SMS, WhatsApp, and mobile applications without needing to queue at gas agencies.
Expanding PNG Infrastructure and Commercial Transitions
Sharma highlighted that approximately 60 lakh households nationwide have PNG networks available nearby and can easily obtain connections. "In cities, commercial establishments affected due to LPG supply are also urged to get in touch with the city gas distribution network and take PNG connections. It is important that we reduce pressure on LPG a bit," she explained, noting that the government cannot currently provide full supply to all commercial consumers.
The government had temporarily halted distribution of 19-kg commercial cylinders last week when the supply crisis intensified, though smaller stocks were later allocated to states for distribution.
High-Level Government Coordination and Supply Priorities
Petroleum Secretary Neeraj Mittal and Consumer Affairs Secretary Nidhi Khare held separate meetings with food and supplies officials from states and union territories. These sessions aimed to familiarize regional authorities with the energy situation arising from military conflicts in West Asia, with assurances of "continuous coordination and cooperation" from the central government.
During these discussions, state officials raised concerns about LPG availability and sought clarity on stock levels. Mittal reassured them that supply to domestic consumers remains the top priority, with the Centre actively exploring additional sources to meet requirements.
Production Increases and Import Dependencies
India has significantly ramped up its domestic LPG production by 30% since March 5. This increase means the country now sources 52% of its LPG requirement domestically, up from previous levels. However, India still imports over 60% of its LPG needs, with 85-90% of these imports traditionally passing through the Strait of Hormuz—a critical shipping lane currently disrupted by regional conflicts.
The country currently serves over 32.3 crore LPG customers, while PNG consumers number more than 1.6 crore, indicating substantial potential for expansion of the piped gas network.
Enhanced Customer Support and Shipping Updates
To manage increased consumer inquiries and complaints, state-run oil marketing companies have expanded their customer support infrastructure. Call center seats have been increased to 400, with telephone lines expanded to 650 to better handle registration of complaints and service requests.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the shipping ministry, provided updates on Indian-flagged vessels near the Strait of Hormuz. Of four ships on the eastern side of the strait, one oil tanker named Jal Prakash has successfully moved out, while three vessels remain with 76 Indian seafarers on board. The departing ship, carrying crude oil, is reportedly heading toward Africa.
Crackdown on Black Marketing and Hoarding
The government has also announced that states have begun implementing crackdowns on individuals and entities engaged in black marketing and hoarding of LPG cylinders. This enforcement action aims to ensure fair distribution and prevent exploitation of the current supply situation.
Officials continue to monitor the situation closely, with regular assessments of both domestic production capabilities and international supply chain developments affecting energy availability across the nation.
