New Delhi: The government on Thursday said LPG supply in India remains stable, with additional allocations made to priority sectors, while petrol pumps and fuel stations across the country are operating normally without any shortages.

According to an official update, all oil refineries in India are functioning at high capacity with adequate crude oil inventories, ensuring uninterrupted production of petroleum products. Domestic LPG production has also been ramped up to meet rising consumption demand.

The government confirmed that delivery of domestic LPG cylinders is proceeding smoothly, with over 37,000 small 5 kg cylinders sold on Wednesday, particularly benefiting priority groups such as migrant workers.

“All fuel retail outlets are operating normally, and there are no reports of dry-outs at LPG distributorships or petrol pumps,” the statement said, urging the public not to believe rumours regarding fuel shortages in India.

Commercial LPG supply and PNG expansion

The Centre has restored up to 20 per cent of commercial LPG supply, with an additional 10 per cent allocation being provided to states and Union Territories based on progress in PNG (Piped Natural Gas) expansion and ease of doing business reforms.

Authorities have also prioritised 100 per cent supply of domestic PNG for cooking and CNG for vehicles, while supply to industrial and commercial consumers connected to the gas grid is being maintained at around 80 per cent of average consumption.

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Crackdown on hoarding and black marketing

The government has directed states and UTs to intensify action against LPG hoarding and black marketing. Enforcement agencies conducted more than 2,600 raids across several states, including Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Telangana, seizing over 450 cylinders in a single day.

Officials from public sector oil companies carried out surprise inspections at more than 1,700 fuel retail outlets and LPG distributorships nationwide to ensure smooth supply and prevent malpractices.

So far, over 680 FIRs have been registered and 195 individuals arrested in connection with hoarding and illegal fuel activities.

CGD push and kerosene allocation

City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies such as Indraprastha Gas Limited, Mahanagar Gas Limited, GAIL Gas Limited, and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited have been asked to prioritise PNG connections for commercial establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and canteens. Incentives are also being offered to boost domestic and commercial PNG adoption.

Additionally, the Centre has allocated an extra 48,000 kilolitres of kerosene supply to states and UTs over and above regular quotas, with directions to streamline district-level distribution.

The government reiterated that fuel availability in India remains adequate, with proactive steps being taken to ensure uninterrupted supply and prevent disruption in essential energy services.

IANS