LPG Update: Switch to PNG from LPG, cooking gas supply a cause for concern, says govt—Key takeaways

LPG Gas Shortage News: The central government said on Friday that LPG vessels have been given priority berthing to ensure smooth supplies. Priority berthing is a maritime arrangement typically adopted to minimise delays and ensure cost-effective cargo transfers. It enables specific vessels to dock at a port, bypassing the standard first-come, first-served queue.

In a press briefing, official spokespersons said that daily LPG bookings have surged to 75 lakh from 55 lakh, while assuring people that there are no supply shortages anywhere in the country. This marked the third straight day when the government held an inter-departmental briefing to share updates on the impact of the West Asia crisis on the Indian economy.

The latest remarks sought to allay growing concerns about a broader LPG refill shortage owing to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial maritime passage currently blocked due to the Middle East conflict. The government once again urged the public not to panic-buy and to book only as needed. Officials said petrol and diesel remain adequately available at pumps.

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Here are some key takeaways from the briefing:

• Priority berthing instructions issued for LPG vessels
• Adequate diesel and petrol available at all fuel pumps
• Do not buy loose petrol or diesel
• Dealerships of fuel stations found to be indulging in any such practices will be suspended

'LPG is a matter of concern for govt'

• LPG is a matter of concern for us
• No dry-out (supply shortage) has been reported anywhere in the country
• Daily LPG bookings have increased from 55 lakh to 75 lakh
• Appeal to consumers not to engage in panic-buying
• Seats and manpower have been increased at OMC call centres

Action underway to prevent black-marketing and hoarding

• The government is taking strict action to prevent black marketing and hoarding
• The Petroleum Secretary and the Consumer Affairs Secretary held a meeting with states on Friday

Avoid panic-buying: Govt's appeal to public

• Appeal to public:
  • Do not panic and avoid panic buying
  • Book cylinders only as per requirement
  • Do not pay attention to rumours

Shipping industry update

• 24 vessels west of the Strait of Hormuz and 4 vessels to the East
• A ship named Jag Prakash has exited the area and is moving ahead
• 23,000 seafarers are in the Gulf region
• Authorities are constantly in contact with them
• All vessels and seafarers are being monitored
• DG Shipping has issued an advisory
• Appeal to stranded nationals:
  • Follow security instructions issued by local administrations and Indian missions
  • Follow security drills

Indian port operations continue to be stable

• Port operations across India remain stable
• SOPs issued for everyone
• Instructions given to work in a coordinated manner

Be wary of LPG scammers

• Scammers are active in the name of LPG booking, so consumers need to stay cautious

• It was decided to first completely halt commercial LPG supply

• After a review, states have now been given the authority to decide supply priorities

• Discussions are on with city gas distributors so that consumers can opt for PNG connections

• That can ease the situation

• Use online platforms or portals to book cylinders instead of standing in queues

• Panic-buying is not a solution

• There is no shortage of LPG

• Consumers may shift to PNG where available by contacting the nearest distributor