Temporary Kerosene Sales at Petrol Pumps for Cooking and Lighting
The government has introduced a temporary plan to sell kerosene at petrol pumps in 21 regions due to ongoing energy scarcity from the Middle East conflict. Additional SKO is being supplied for households facing LPG shortages and some users have switched back to kerosene.
Highlights
- •Kerosene reintroduced at selected petrol stations
- •60-day emergency plan to ensure cooking and lighting
- •48,000 kilolitres of additional SKO approved
- •6,000 PNG users surrendered LPG connections
As the ongoing conflict in the Middle East continues to strain global energy supplies, the central government has introduced a 60-day emergency plan to ensure cooking and lighting needs are met. Kerosene will be sold at petrol stations for 21 regions where its use had been phased out. This initiative aims to provide households experiencing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortages with an alternative source of energy.
Enhancing Accessibility with Kerosene Supplies
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has authorized selected fuel stations in kerosene-free areas to stock up to 5,000 liters of Superior Kerosene Oil (SKO). This decision allows for the temporary reintroduction of kerosene in regions that had previously ceased its distribution through the Public Distribution System (PDS).
To streamline this process, certain licensing requirements for dealers and transporters have been simplified. However, safety and monitoring regulations remain intact to ensure responsible distribution. The government authorized an extra 48,000 kilolitres of kerosene beyond established quotas for all states and union territories.
A district-level approach has been adopted, with local administrations tasked with identifying suitable locations for kerosene distribution points. Some regions like Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Rajasthan will receive SKO distribution directives amidst existing challenges.
Additionally, 6,000 piped natural gas (PNG) users have begun to switch from LPG, returning their connections to utilize the alternative fuel source. Neeraj Mittal, Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, commended those who chose this route: 'As of yesterday, 6,000 PNG users had returned their LPG connections! A big thank you to them!!'
