According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the supply situation of petroleum and LPG in India is completely safe and under control. Adequate quantity of fuel is available at all retail fuel outlets across the country. There is no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG anywhere. The government says that India currently has so much stock of crude oil that it is enough for the next 60 days. The Ministry has appealed to the citizens not to fall prey to the misinformation that is being spread in a very organized and systematic manner, the sole objective of which is to create unnecessary panic.
Petrol pumps are open without any interruption
The ministry said that more than 100,000 petrol pumps across the country are open without any interruption, and rationing (limited supply) has not been implemented anywhere. However, incidents of panic buying were reported at some places, but these were a direct result of misleading news circulating on social media. Despite this, oil companies maintained continuity of supply, and depots continued to operate without interruption. Additionally, the credit period given to petrol pumps has been increased from one day to three days, to ensure that the supply continues without any interruption.
Crude Oil Supply: Completely Secure
Despite the current situation around the Strait of Hormuz, India is receiving steady supply of crude oil from more than 41 countries. Additional supplies secured from the international market—especially from Western countries—have effectively compensated for any potential shortfall. All refineries are currently operating at more than 100% of their installed capacity, and supplies for the next 60 days have already been secured.
About 60 days actual stock available
The claims that the country has enough fuel stock for only six days are completely false and misleading. India has a total storage capacity of 74 days, while currently there is enough physical stock available for about 60 days. Despite the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, the country’s fuel supply—enough for about two months—remains secure; Therefore, any apprehensions regarding any possible reduction are completely unfounded.
LPG: Production increased, imports decreased
The situation regarding LPG is also completely normal. Following government initiatives, domestic production has seen an increase of 40%; Presently the daily production is 50 TMT (thousand metric tons) of LPG, while the total requirement is around 80 TMT. As a result, the import requirement has come down to 30 TMT. Additionally, a total consignment of 800 TMT LPG has already been received from countries like USA, Russia and Australia. Supplies are continuing through the country’s 22 import terminals. Oil companies are distributing more than 5 million cylinders daily, and demand has now returned to normal levels.
PNG boost: a long term strategy
Piped Natural Gas (PNG) is being strongly promoted as an economical, safe and environment-friendly alternative. India’s gas production capacity is 92 MMSCMD, while the total demand is 191 MMSCMD. Over the past few years, both the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network and domestic connections have expanded rapidly. The ministry has clarified that promoting PNG is not a sign of any crisis, but is an important part of a long-term energy strategy.
Government’s strict warning
The Ministry has expressed deep concern over the misleading reports and videos circulating on social media. In many posts, pictures and news from other countries are being falsely shown as if they are related to India, which is creating an atmosphere of unnecessary fear. The government has clearly stated that spreading false information is a punishable offense under the law, and strict action will be taken against those involved in such cases. Citizens are appealed to rely only on official sources for information and not to pay attention to rumours.
