Government Urges Cautious LPG Use Amid Supply Concerns
As concerns about a potential LPG shortage grow, the Indian government is urging citizens to use fuel responsibly. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has reported adequate supplies of petrol and diesel while promoting the transition to piped natural gas. Enforcement actions have ramped up, with thousands of raids leading to significant cylinder seizures across various states. Additionally, the safety of Indian sailors in the Gulf region has been assured, with recent repatriations coordinated through embassies. Clarifications have also been made regarding container reports at Jawaharlal Nehru Port. Read on for more details.
Mar 17, 2026, 16:32 IST
Government's Call for Responsible LPG Usage
Amid rising concerns regarding a potential shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), the central government has urged citizens to use fuel judiciously and indicated plans to enhance the infrastructure for piped natural gas (PNG). Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, stated during a press briefing that petrol and diesel supplies are adequate. Regarding natural gas, she mentioned that the Indian government is making efforts, and it would be beneficial if all commercial LPG users transitioned to PNG (Petrol, Petroleum, and Natural Gas).
Enforcement Actions and Seizures
Sharma reported that enforcement actions have intensified, with approximately twelve thousand raids conducted in recent days, leading to the seizure of around fifteen thousand cylinders. In Delhi alone, about six hundred cylinders were confiscated yesterday. Similarly, around four hundred and fifty inspections and raids took place in Uttar Pradesh, resulting in ten arrests. In Jammu and Kashmir, five hundred sixty-four raids were executed, leading to FIRs and arrests. Kerala saw nearly one thousand inspections and seizures of both domestic and commercial cylinders, while Madhya Pradesh recorded about twelve hundred raids with approximately eighteen hundred cylinders seized. Additionally, inspection teams from oil marketing companies have been mobilized, conducting surprise checks at around two thousand five hundred retail outlets and LPG distributors.
Safety of Indian Mariners in the Gulf
Rajesh Kumar Sinha from the Ministry of Shipping confirmed that all Indian sailors and vessels in the Gulf region are safe. In the last 24 hours, 161 Indian sailors have returned home after completing their duties in the Gulf. This operation was coordinated with our embassies and missions. The second LPG carrier, Nanda Devi, arrived at Kandla around 2:30 AM today, and unloading is currently underway for both LPG carriers, Shivalk and Nanda Devi. The unloading process for Nanda Devi is being conducted ship-to-ship, transferring cargo from the main vessel to a support vessel. Efforts are ongoing to facilitate the movement of ships and cargo operations at the port.
Clarification on Container Reports
He also addressed a news report stating that approximately 450 containers were left on the road at Jawaharlal Nehru Port, clarifying that this report is unfounded. The containers are located within the Container Freight Station (CFS), warehouses, and factory premises, in accordance with JNPA policies.