West Asia crisis: 52.3 lakh LPG cylinders delivered, 8.97 lakh passengers return; govt tightens supply checks

West Asia Crisis: India has maintained stable fuel supplies and evacuation operations despite the ongoing West Asia crisis, delivering over 52.3 lakh LPG cylinders in a day and facilitating the return of 8.97 lakh passengers since February 28, even as authorities intensify inspections and crack down on irregularities across the supply chain. In its latest update on April 12, the government said it is closely monitoring developments in West Asia and has activated a coordinated response across energy, shipping and citizen safety. Despite disruptions around key global routes, there have been no LPG shortages or dry-outs reported across the country. At the same time, enforcement action has been stepped up, with penalties imposed on 219 LPG distributors and 56 agencies suspended so far.

Fuel supply remains stable with no LPG shortages reported

The government has reassured citizens that fuel availability remains adequate across the country despite global uncertainties.

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More than 52.3 lakh domestic LPG cylinders were delivered on April 11, with distribution continuing smoothly. Officials confirmed that no LPG dry-outs have been reported, indicating strong last-mile supply.

Refineries are operating at high capacity, while petrol and diesel stocks remain sufficient. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid panic buying and rely only on official communication.

Govt cracks down on hoarding with raids and distributor suspensions

Enforcement action has intensified to curb black marketing and ensure fair distribution of LPG.

On April 11 alone, over 2,700 raids were conducted nationwide. So far, 219 LPG distributors have been penalised and 56 distributorships suspended.

The system has also become more transparent, with 98 per cent of LPG bookings now happening online and 93 per cent of deliveries authenticated digitally, reducing the scope for diversion.

PNG connections rise as govt pushes shift from LPG

The government is accelerating the transition towards piped natural gas to ease pressure on LPG demand.

Since March 2026, over 4.24 lakh PNG connections have been gasified, while more than 4.66 lakh consumers have registered for new connections. Additionally, over 30,000 users have surrendered LPG connections voluntarily.

Companies are offering incentives, and states have been asked to speed up approvals for gas infrastructure to expand access.

Commercial LPG supply improves with focus on migrant workers

Commercial LPG supply has been restored to about 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels, with targeted interventions for vulnerable sections.

The government has doubled the availability of 5 kg cylinders for migrant workers, with over 13 lakh such cylinders sold since March 23.

Around 3,300 awareness camps have also been conducted to promote smaller cylinders and ensure wider accessibility.

Port operations remain normal, Indian seafarers safe

Shipping and maritime operations continue without disruption despite concerns in the region.

All Indian ports are functioning normally, with no congestion reported. There have been no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the past 24 hours.

So far, over 2,084 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated, while a 24x7 control room continues to assist those in the region.

Nearly 8.97 lakh passengers return to India amid travel disruptions

India has facilitated large-scale movement of its citizens from West Asia despite restricted airspace conditions.

Since February 28, around 8,97,000 passengers have travelled from the region to India. Flights continue to operate through available routes, including alternative transit points where direct airspace access is restricted.

Indian missions remain active on the ground, providing assistance, advisories and round-the-clock support to citizens.

Govt cuts fuel taxes, increases levies to protect domestic supply

To shield consumers from rising global crude prices, the government has taken key pricing measures.

Excise duty on petrol and diesel has been reduced by Rs 10 per litre, while export levies have been increased to Rs 55.50 per litre on diesel and Rs 42 per litre on ATF.

Despite global price pressures, retail fuel prices remain unchanged. Additionally, 48,000 kilolitres of kerosene has been allocated to states to support demand.

Govt urges citizens to avoid panic buying and conserve energy

Authorities have issued a strong advisory to maintain stability in supply and demand.

Citizens have been asked to avoid panic buying of fuel, use digital LPG booking systems and consider alternative fuels such as PNG or electric cooking.

The government has also urged people to conserve energy and rely only on verified information, while states continue efforts to counter misinformation and ensure smooth distribution.