New Delhi, April 5 (NationPress) The number of online bookings for LPG cylinders has surged to 95 percent, and there have been no reports of shortages at LPG distribution centers, with over 51 lakh domestic cylinders successfully delivered on April 4, as per the latest announcement from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on Sunday.

In an effort to curb diversion at the distributor level, deliveries utilizing the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) have risen to 90 percent, a significant increase from 53 percent in February prior to the supply disruptions caused by the Iran conflict. Consumers are encouraged to utilize digital platforms for booking LPG cylinders and to minimize visits to distributors unless absolutely necessary.

The sales of 5 kg LPG cylinders on Saturday exceeded 90,000, bringing the total since March 23 to approximately 6.6 lakh cylinders. These 5 kg cylinders can be acquired from local LPG distributors with a valid ID; no address proof is required, according to the official statement.

In addition, the expansion of PNG (piped natural gas) is progressing rapidly, with 3.6 lakh connections gasified and over 3.9 lakh new registrations since March.

States have been directed to assist with new PNG connections for both residential and commercial consumers.

All refineries are functioning at full capacity, maintaining sufficient crude inventories. The nation is also ensuring adequate stocks of petrol and diesel. The production of domestic LPG from refineries has been enhanced to meet local demand, as stated in the release.

The government is committed to ensuring the availability of petrol, diesel, and LPG, advising citizens against panic buying and unnecessary LPG bookings. Citizens are urged to make use of digital options for booking LPG cylinders and to limit visits to LPG distributors unless required, the statement emphasized.

Furthermore, households are encouraged to consider alternative fuels such as PNG, induction stoves, and electric cooktops wherever possible. In light of the current situation, it is vital for all citizens to take measures to conserve energy in their daily habits.

People are also warned to be cautious of misinformation and to rely solely on official channels for accurate updates.

The government prioritizes domestic LPG and PNG supply, particularly for hospitals and educational institutions amid ongoing disruptions from the Iran conflict.

Several rationalization measures have already been put in place by the Centre, including boosting refinery output, extending the booking interval from 21 to 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural regions, and prioritizing supply to critical sectors.

Alternative fuel sources such as kerosene and coal are also being provided to alleviate pressure on LPG demand.

The Petroleum Secretary led a meeting with Additional Chief Secretaries and Principal Secretaries (Food & Civil Supplies) from all states and Union Territories to assess the fuel supply situation and discuss measures taken to ensure a steady supply.

The states were instructed to prioritize LPG distribution, particularly for domestic and essential use, while maintaining strict monitoring against hoarding, diversion, and misinformation. Addressing concerns regarding LPG supply for migrant workers, states confirmed that there are no disruptions affecting this group and that supplies remain stable.