West Asia Crisis: Govt says no fuel shortage, urges people to avoid panic buying

India’s energy supplies, transport networks and evacuation efforts remain stable despite escalating tensions in West Asia and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, with the government stepping up monitoring and emergency measures, according to an official statement. Authorities said petrol pumps and LPG distribution are functioning normally across the country, even as isolated panic buying was reported. At the same time, around 4.5 lakh passengers have returned to India since February 28, while key infrastructure from ports to refineries continues to operate without disruption.

Fuel supply stable despite Strait of Hormuz disruption

The government has maintained that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG, with all refineries running at high capacity and adequate crude stocks in place. Domestic LPG production has also been increased to meet demand.

Retail fuel outlets across India are operating normally. However, rumours triggered panic buying in some regions, leading to temporary crowding and spikes in sales. Officials reiterated that sufficient stocks are available and urged citizens not to rely on unverified information.

LPG, PNG push intensifies with priority allocations

To ease pressure on LPG supplies, the government has expanded allocations and accelerated the shift towards piped natural gas (PNG).

Over 37,000 small 5 kg LPG cylinders were sold in a single day, mainly to support vulnerable groups such as migrant labourers. Commercial LPG allocation has now been raised to 50 per cent, with priority given to restaurants, dhabas, hotels, community kitchens and food processing units.

Simultaneously, PNG adoption is being fast-tracked. A total of 11,089 PNG connections were added in one day across 110 geographical areas. Authorities have directed city gas distributors to connect institutions such as schools, hostels and anganwadi kitchens within five days wherever pipelines exist nearby.

Incentives are also being offered by companies to encourage households and businesses to switch from LPG to PNG, seen as a more stable and long-term solution.

Crackdown on hoarding, black marketing intensifies

States and Union Territories have been asked to take strict action against hoarding and black marketing under the Essential Commodities Act.

More than 2,600 raids were conducted across several states, leading to the seizure of over 450 LPG cylinders. Authorities have registered over 680 FIRs and arrested 195 individuals so far.

Additionally, oil marketing companies carried out surprise inspections at over 1,700 fuel stations and LPG distributorships to ensure smooth supply and prevent malpractice.

States have also been directed to hold daily press briefings, set up control rooms and actively counter misinformation, especially on social media.

Ports, shipping operations normal; seafarers safe

India’s maritime sector continues to function smoothly despite regional tensions. Port operations remain normal across major coastal states, with no congestion reported.

Around 20 Indian-flagged vessels with 540 Indian seafarers remain in the western Persian Gulf, all of whom are reported safe. Authorities are closely monitoring shipping movements, while a 24x7 control room has handled over 4,200 calls and 8,200 emails since activation.

So far, 674 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated, including 39 in the past 24 hours.

Flight operations improve; 4.5 lakh Indians return

Air connectivity from West Asia is gradually improving, with special and non-scheduled flights helping stranded Indians return home.

Since February 28, around 4.5 lakh passengers have returned to India. Limited flights are operating from countries such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Oman, while alternative travel routes are being used for regions with airspace restrictions.

For instance, travel from Iran is being facilitated via Armenia and Azerbaijan, while routes via Jordan and Saudi Arabia are being used for other affected regions.

Government urges calm, energy conservation

The government has issued a strong advisory urging citizens to avoid panic buying of fuel and LPG, emphasising that supplies remain sufficient.

People have been encouraged to use digital booking for LPG, adopt alternative cooking options such as PNG or electric cooktops, and conserve energy wherever possible.

Officials stressed that coordinated action between the Centre and states, along with public cooperation, is key to maintaining stability during the ongoing geopolitical crisis.