The Centre has urged citizens not to panic-book cooking gas cylinders, stating that domestic LPG production has increased by nearly 30 per cent amid concerns triggered by the ongoing tensions involving Iran, United States, and Israel.
Officials said the demand pattern for LPG across the country has changed significantly in recent days, largely due to panic buying. However, the government has assured that supplies remain stable and sufficient for domestic consumers.
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said LPG bookings have surged to nearly 75.7 lakh cylinders per day compared to the earlier average of about 55.7 lakh cylinders daily before the conflict.
“I want to appeal to the people that there should be no rumour mongering and there is absolutely no need to panic,” Sharma said.
Officials confirmed that currently the entire LPG supply is being directed toward domestic consumers to ensure uninterrupted availability.
India traditionally imports around 60 per cent of its LPG requirement, with nearly 90 per cent of those imports passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The narrow shipping route connects the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea and handles a significant share of global oil and LPG transportation.
However, the ongoing conflict in the region has disrupted shipping routes, with several tankers reportedly coming under attack since the escalation of hostilities.
In response to the situation, the government has instructed an increase in domestic LPG production and has formed a committee to closely monitor supply conditions and develop diversion plans if required.
Officials also assured that India’s crude oil supply remains stable. Authorities highlighted that India now sources crude oil from around 40 countries, ensuring diversified imports.
According to officials, the country currently receives crude oil supplies exceeding its daily requirement of approximately 5.5 million barrels, helping maintain stable fuel availability despite global tensions.
Meanwhile, Iran has rejected reports claiming that it allowed India-flagged tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz amid the ongoing conflict.
The government reiterated that there is no shortage of LPG in the country and urged citizens to avoid panic booking so that supply chains remain smooth for all consumers.
