New Delhi: Around 6,000 piped natural gas (PNG) consumers have voluntarily surrendered their LPG connections to improve availability for households without access to piped gas, amid ongoing supply disruptions linked to the Iran war, a senior government official said on Sunday.

Petroleum and Natural Gas Secretary Neeraj Mittal confirmed the development, urging more eligible consumers to follow suit.

“As many as 6,000 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections till yesterday. A big thanks to them. Join this strong group of citizens who have come forward to help others access LPG,” Mittal said in a post on X.

He also encouraged users to give up LPG connections via the official portal, as part of efforts to optimise LPG distribution in India during the current geopolitical crisis.

LPG supply stable despite global disruptions

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry said that domestic LPG supply remains stable, despite global supply chain challenges. More than 54 lakh LPG cylinder refills were delivered nationwide till Saturday, with no reports of shortages at distributorships.

Online LPG bookings have surged, accounting for 91 per cent of total bookings, indicating strong consumer demand and efficient digital adoption.

Measures to prevent black marketing

To curb diversion and ensure fair distribution, Delivery Authentication Code (DAC)-based LPG deliveries have increased significantly from 53 per cent in February 2026 to 84 per cent currently.

Authorities have also intensified enforcement actions against LPG hoarding and black marketing, conducting nearly 2,900 raids across states and Union Territories. Over 1,700 LPG cylinders were seized, while public sector oil marketing companies issued more than 390 show-cause notices to distributors.

Also read| PNG explained: Where it comes from and how it reaches your kitchen

Fuel availability and refinery operations

The government confirmed that all refineries are operating at high capacity, supported by adequate crude oil inventories. Stocks of petrol and diesel in India remain sufficient, while domestic LPG production has been ramped up to meet rising consumption.

Priority supply has been ensured for domestic PNG users and CNG transport, which continue to receive 100 per cent allocation, while industrial and commercial gas consumers are currently receiving around 80 per cent of their average supply.

Additionally, fuel retail outlets across India are functioning normally, with the government having reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre to ease consumer burden.

Call for public participation

The government has reiterated its appeal for eligible PNG consumers to voluntarily give up LPG connections, highlighting it as a citizen-driven initiative to support equitable energy access during a period of global uncertainty.

IANS