Govt Assures Fuel Stability Amid West Asia Crisis
No shortage of petrol, diesel; urges public to avoid panic buying
- Government of India assures adequate fuel and LPG stocks
- Panic buying reported in some areas due to rumours
- Maritime operations and ports functioning normally
- Over 5.24 lakh Indians returned safely from West Asia
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 29th March: The Government of India on Sunday assured that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG in the country, even as it continues to closely monitor the evolving situation in West Asia and its impact on energy supplies and logistics.
In an official update, the government said all petrol pumps across India are fully stocked and operational, urging citizens not to fall for misinformation that has triggered panic buying in some regions.
“All retail outlets are functioning normally and there are adequate stocks of petrol and diesel available,” the statement said, reiterating that rumours are responsible for temporary spikes in demand.
To stabilise domestic supply, the Centre has already reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre and imposed export duties on diesel and aviation turbine fuel to prioritise domestic availability.
The government also highlighted that refineries are operating at high capacity with sufficient crude reserves, while domestic LPG production has been ramped up to meet demand. Over 55 lakh LPG refills were delivered in a single day, with no shortages reported at distributor levels.
On natural gas, supplies to domestic and transport sectors remain fully prioritised, while industrial supply continues at about 80% of average consumption. Additional LNG cargoes are being sourced to ensure stability.
The government said more than 2.9 lakh new gas connections were provided in March across households, commercial establishments and institutions, reflecting efforts to expand cleaner fuel access.
Addressing maritime concerns, authorities confirmed that port operations across India remain smooth, with no congestion reported. Two LPG carriers carrying around 94,000 metric tonnes of cargo have safely transited the region and are en route to Indian ports.
The Directorate General of Shipping is monitoring Indian vessels and seafarers round the clock, with over 942 seafarers repatriated so far.
On the safety of Indian nationals abroad, the Ministry of External Affairs said missions are operating 24×7 and extending assistance to citizens, including students and workers. Since February 28, more than 5.24 lakh Indians have returned from the region through coordinated evacuation and travel arrangements.
The government reiterated that ensuring the safety of Indian citizens and maintaining uninterrupted supply of essential commodities remain top priorities.
It also advised citizens to conserve energy, rely on official updates and avoid unnecessary purchases of fuel or LPG during the ongoing crisis.
