Middle East Crisis: No fuel shortage, LPG supply stable, govt says after PM Modi chairs high-level meeting

As tensions escalate across West Asia, PM Modi chaired a high-level meeting with senior ministers and top officials to assess the impact on India’s energy security and supply chains. The review came amid volatility in global oil markets and uncertainty around key trade routes, including the Strait of Hormuz. The government’s priority remained clear - ensure uninterrupted availability of petroleum products, electricity and fertilisers across the country, while protecting consumers and industries from any immediate disruption.

The ongoing crisis in the Middle East has heightened concerns over global energy supplies, particularly crude oil and gas. India imports a significant share of its energy needs from the region, making it vulnerable to external shocks.

Against this backdrop, PM Modi stepped in to directly monitor the situation. The meeting focused on ensuring that global instability does not translate into domestic shortages or price spikes.

Govt issues detailed update on fuel, LPG, shipping and safety

Following the meeting, the government released a comprehensive update across key sectors, underlining that supplies remain stable and there is no cause for panic.

Domestic LPG deliveries continue as normal, with panic bookings now declining. The government has also increased commercial LPG allocation to states, while prioritising essential sectors such as hospitals, educational institutions and community kitchens.

At the same time, states have been advised to accelerate new piped natural gas (PNG) connections for both households and businesses to ease pressure on LPG demand.

Fuel supply stable, refineries running at high capacity

The government said all refineries are operating at high capacity, with adequate crude inventories in place. Stocks of petrol and diesel remain sufficient, and no fuel dry-outs have been reported at retail outlets across the country.

Authorities have urged citizens to avoid panic buying, stressing that supply chains are functioning normally and fuel availability remains steady.

Domestic LPG production from refineries has also been maximised to strengthen supply.

LPG situation under watch, but supply remains normal

While LPG supply remains an area of concern due to the geopolitical situation, there are no reported shortages at distributorships.

Deliveries of domestic cylinders are proceeding normally, supported by digital authentication systems. Panic bookings, which had briefly increased, are now easing.

For commercial users, the government has progressively increased allocation. Total supply has now been raised to 50 per cent, with priority given to restaurants, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing units and welfare schemes.

Educational institutions and hospitals are receiving nearly half of the total commercial LPG allocation.

Push for PNG expansion to reduce dependence

To reduce reliance on LPG, the government is actively promoting PNG connections across urban and semi-urban areas.

City gas distribution companies such as IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas and BPCL have been directed to fast-track connections and offer incentives for both domestic and commercial users.

States have been asked to expedite approvals for expanding PNG networks, while central ministries have been instructed to switch government establishments to PNG wherever possible.

Strict action against hoarding and black marketing

The government has stepped up enforcement to prevent hoarding and black marketing of LPG.

Around 3,500 raids have been conducted across states, leading to the seizure of more than 1,200 cylinders in recent operations. Oil marketing companies have also carried out inspections at over 1,800 fuel stations and LPG distributorships.

States have been directed to maintain strict vigilance and take action under relevant laws to curb malpractice.

Power, gas and fertiliser supply under review

During the meeting, PM Modi reviewed the availability of fuel for power generation and fertiliser production.

Priority sectors are being protected, including full supply for domestic PNG and CNG transport. Industrial and commercial gas supply is being maintained at around 80 per cent of average consumption.

The government is also ensuring that fertiliser availability remains stable so that farmers do not face disruptions during key agricultural cycles.

Ports, shipping and logistics operations remain normal

Despite global tensions, port operations across India remain smooth, with no congestion reported.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is closely monitoring maritime movements. Indian-flagged vessels and seafarers in the region remain safe, with no incidents reported in the past 24 hours.

A 24x7 control room is operational to assist seafarers, while coordination continues with international agencies and Indian missions.

Safety of Indian nationals remains top priority

The government said the safety of Indian citizens in the Gulf region remains a top priority.

Indian missions are operating round the clock, assisting citizens, issuing advisories and coordinating evacuations where needed. More than 3,50,000 passengers have returned to India since late February.

Flights continue from key countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman, while alternate arrangements are being made for regions facing airspace restrictions.

A key focus of PM Modi’s review was ensuring that domestic logistics and distribution networks remain robust.

The government is working to ensure that even if global supply chains face disruption, the movement of goods within India remains unaffected.

States have been advised to strengthen local distribution systems and maintain control rooms and monitoring mechanisms.

Govt urges public to avoid panic, conserve energy

The government has issued a public advisory urging citizens not to panic or rely on rumours.

Consumers have been asked to avoid panic bookings, use digital platforms and rely on home delivery systems. Citizens are also encouraged to adopt energy-saving practices and explore alternatives such as PNG and electric cooking options.