India Ensures Steady Fuel Supply Amid Concerns Over Availability
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has confirmed that India faces no crude oil shortages, ensuring stable fuel supply across the nation. Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma highlighted that all refineries are operating at full capacity, and fuel stations are functioning normally. Amid concerns about fuel availability in some areas, the ministry reassured that the petroleum supply chain is running smoothly. Additionally, the Indian-flagged LPG carrier Shivalik is on its way to Mundra Port, with all crew members reported safe. The government is also in discussions with Iran to reopen vital waterways for global oil trade. Read on for more details on the current fuel situation in India.
Mar 16, 2026, 15:59 IST
Government Reassures on Oil Supply Stability
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has assured the public that there is no shortage of crude oil in the country, and fuel supply remains stable across India. Speaking on the matter, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing and Refining) at the ministry, stated that crude oil is readily available and all refineries are operating at full capacity. She emphasized that fuel stations are functioning normally, and there have been no reports of fuel shortages anywhere.
Clarification Amid Fuel Availability Concerns
Sharma's remarks come in response to concerns regarding fuel availability in certain regions. The ministry clarified that the petroleum supply chain is functioning smoothly, with no disruptions in the distribution of petrol and diesel. Officials noted that oil marketing companies are closely monitoring supply conditions to ensure uninterrupted fuel availability at retail outlets. Additionally, the Ministry of Shipping confirmed that the Indian-flagged LPG carrier, Shivalik, is expected to arrive at Mundra Port soon.
LPG Carrier Shivalik Approaching India
Rajesh Kumar Sinha from the Ministry of Shipping stated that the Shivalik LPG carrier, which departed from the Persian Gulf, is currently navigating through the Strait of Hormuz and is anticipated to reach India around 5 PM today, possibly within the next hour. Preparations for documentation, priority berthing, and other arrangements have been made at the port to ensure timely unloading of the vessel. All Indian sailors in the Persian Gulf region are reported safe, with no incidents occurring in the past 24 hours. Continuous monitoring of the situation is in place, and communication with each vessel and its crew is ongoing. As of Saturday, 22 vessels, including 611 Indian sailors, remain in the Persian Gulf west of the Strait of Hormuz.
Safe Transport of Crude Oil
He further mentioned that the Indian-flagged vessel 'Jag Ladki', which set sail from the United Arab Emirates on March 14, is safely transporting approximately 81,000 tons of Murban crude oil towards India. All crew members aboard are secure and are expected to arrive at Mundra Port tomorrow. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar previously indicated that Delhi is in talks with Iran to reopen crucial waterways that facilitate nearly 20% of global oil trade.