Source TOI
New Delhi: The Indian government has invoked emergency powers and directed domestic oil refiners to increase the production of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to prevent a potential shortage of cooking gas as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to disrupt global energy markets.
Officials have asked refiners to maximise LPG production by utilising available propane and butane stocks. The move aims to ensure a stable supply of cooking gas for millions of households across the country as uncertainties in the Middle East raise concerns about possible disruptions in fuel shipments.
India depends heavily on imports to meet a large portion of its LPG demand, with a significant share coming from the Middle East. Any disturbance in the region’s supply chains could impact the availability and pricing of cooking gas in the domestic market.
To address the risk, refiners have been instructed to prioritise LPG output and supply it to state-run fuel retailers such as Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited, and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited. These companies are responsible for distributing cooking gas cylinders to consumers across India.
Authorities say the emergency directive is a precautionary measure to safeguard energy supplies and maintain uninterrupted LPG distribution. The government is also monitoring global developments closely and exploring alternative supply sources if the geopolitical situation worsens.
Officials have reassured that India currently has adequate fuel reserves and that steps are being taken to ensure households do not face any disruption in cooking gas availability.
