Centre Appeals to 60 Crore LPG Users for Greater Adoption of Piped Gas
The LPG crisis in India deepens with reports of shortages despite government assurances. Families near PNG infrastructure are encouraged to switch to piped gas for a more reliable supply system, alongside measures targeting hoarders and black market activities.
Highlights
- •60 lakh families have been targeted by the government to adopt piped cooking gas (PNG) due to shortages of LPG cylinders
- •The government has witnessed an increase in domestic LPG production by 30% since March 5th, providing assurance about fuel supply
- •Stricter measures are being taken against hoarders and illegal sellers to control the crisis caused by the war in West Asia
- •Resources are dedicated to ensuring steady LPG supplies to essential sectors to mitigate possible shortages for commercial activities
The ongoing conflict between Iran and America-Israel is exacerbating the LPG cylinder crisis across several regions in India. Despite the government's assurances, there are growing reports of shortages.
LPG users have been encouraged to adopt piped cooking gas (PNG) which offers a more reliable supply system, as suggested by Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Families situated near existing PNG networks can benefit significantly from this initiative, with potential for a consistent fuel supply.
With 33.37 crore LPG users nationwide and over 15 million households relying on PNG technology at home, Sharma provided reassurance to families about the availability of services and stability in their current distribution channels. She emphasized that there is no panic buying occurring, as stock levels are not depleted and bookings have surged sharply compared to pre-war times.
Sharma highlighted another critical development: the increase in domestic LPG production by 30% over the period since March 5th, indicating a robust supply chain. In response to the crisis, the government has launched stringent measures against hoarders and illegal sellers, collaborating with state-level authorities like the Civil Supplies Ministry.
Additionally, the Centre is focusing its resources on ensuring uninterrupted fuel supplies to essential sectors such as residential kitchens, hospitals, educational institutions, while reducing allocation for commercial activities like restaurants. By redesignating a fifth of commercial LPG shipments to government entities and UTs (Union Territories), these organizations have been empowered to manage stock levels more securely.
The conflict in the Middle East has disrupted oil and fuel supply routes through the Strait of Hormuz, affecting India's critical LPG distribution networks. The Centre’s initiative is aimed at stabilizing consumer demand and supply chains amidst this geopolitical turmoil.
