Amidst the increasing war between America and Iran, the Central Government has said that the supply of petrol, diesel and cooking gas in the country is completely safe. According to the government, there has been a decline in domestic LPG refill booking in recent times. According to the latest data, LPG booking in the country has come down to about 77 lakh, whereas on March 13 it was 88.8 lakh. This means that in just two days about 12 lakh bookings were reduced. The government has made it clear that people do not need to panic as fuel supply is continuing normally.
Increase in share of online booking
The government said that the use of digital medium in LPG booking has increased rapidly. Now about 87 percent of the bookings are being done online, which earlier was about 84 percent. This increase is the result of the initiative of oil marketing companies, under which people are being encouraged for digital booking. Besides, a campaign is also being run to avoid long queues at LPG dealerships and to stop booking more cylinders than necessary. According to the government, all the domestic refineries of the country are working at full capacity and they have adequate reserves of crude oil.
No problem in meeting domestic demand
The government says that India is self-sufficient in the production of petrol and diesel and import of these fuels is not necessary to meet domestic needs. Oil marketing companies have also said that no information has been received about fuel shortage at petrol pumps or LPG distributors across the country. The supply of petrol, diesel and LPG is continuing normally.
Priority to the interests of consumers
The government said that protecting the interests of domestic consumers is its priority. Especially in homes as well as important areas like hospitals and educational institutions, uninterrupted supply of LPG is being ensured. Many states and union territories including Bihar, Delhi, Haryana and Rajasthan have also issued guidelines regarding allocation of non-domestic LPG.
Strictness on hoarding and black marketing
The government said that complaints of hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders have come to light at some places. To stop this, raids are being conducted in many states including Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. Officials of public sector oil marketing companies are also conducting surprise inspections on LPG distributors, so that the supply system remains smooth.
The government has appealed to the people not to panic and book too much LPG. There is sufficient stock of petrol, diesel and gas in the country and the supply will continue normally.