New Delhi, April 4 (IANS). State-owned oil marketing company (OMC) Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) on Saturday assured that supplies of petrol, diesel and LPG remain adequate across the country thanks to the central government’s efforts to minimize any disruption in fuel supply chains amid global uncertainties.
The public sector company said it is closely monitoring its nationwide distribution network and taking necessary steps to prevent hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders.
The company posted on social media platform ‘X’ urging consumers not to make panic purchases or make unnecessary LPG bookings. Supply chains remain stable despite concerns raised by tensions in West Asia and disruptions around key shipping routes such as the Strait of Hormuz.
“At IndianOil, we are ensuring adequate availability of petrol, diesel and LPG across the country. Necessary steps are being taken to prevent hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders. The supply network is also being continuously monitored,” the company said.
The assurance comes amid concerns of disruption in global oil supplies due to rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
Officials said Indian refiners have actively secured crude oil supplies for the coming months, which will ensure continuity in domestic fuel availability.
Refiners also have the luxury of sourcing crude from multiple geographies based on commercial considerations, which helps mitigate the impact of global volatility, officials further said.
The Petroleum Ministry said India recently imported a consignment of LPG from Iran, which has reached the western port of Mangaluru and is being unloaded.
Officials said domestic fuel availability remains stable, and coordinated efforts are underway to ensure uninterrupted distribution and prevent any artificial shortage.
Additionally, 21 states and union territories are holding press briefings to refute misinformation and reassure citizens about adequate availability and smooth distribution of LPG.
The government has asked Chief Secretaries of all states and union territories to disseminate accurate information in a timely manner.
OMCs also provide 5 kg LPG cylinders at distributors and petrol pumps on showing valid ID, which does not require proof of address.
“5 kg FTL cylinders are available at nearest LPG distributors and can be purchased by showing any valid identity card. No proof of address is required,” the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said.
Nearly 5.7 lakh such cylinders have been sold since March 23, of which more than 71,000 units were sold in a single day recently.
–IANS
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