Government Reports 40% Surge in Domestic LPG Production Amid Supply Worries
Synopsis
On March 18, the government announced a significant 40% increase in domestic LPG production. This boost comes amidst ongoing concerns regarding supply routes, particularly due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical oil passage.
Key Takeaways
40% increase in domestic LPG production.
Supply issues linked to the Strait of Hormuz .
No petrol shortages reported.
Government offering 10% more commercial LPG to supportive states.
Indian vessels in the Persian Gulf are safe .
New Delhi, March 18 (NationPress) The government has revealed that the production of domestic liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) has surged by 40 percent amidst ongoing supply concerns linked to the closure of the vital oil passageway, the Strait of Hormuz.
During a routine briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, stated that petrol stations currently have adequate stocks of petrol and diesel.
"With a 40 percent increase in domestic LPG production, we have not reported any shortages at petrol stations," Sharma stated, adding that crude oil supplies are sufficient and both piped natural gas (PNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) are fully available for consumers.
Despite this, she acknowledged ongoing concerns regarding LPG supply, as much of the country's supply traverses the conflict-impacted Strait of Hormuz.
Online bookings for LPG have improved, reaching 93 percent by March 17, according to her report. The government has reached out to states and Union Territories (UTs) to offer a 10 percent increase in commercial LPG supplies, contingent on their efforts to transition to PNG.
"We have issued a letter offering an additional 10 percent allocation of commercial LPG to states and UTs that assist in promoting the long-term switch from LPG to PNG," Sharma explained. Under this initiative, the government plans to enhance the availability of commercial LPG for states.
"It is imperative for state and Union Territory governments to advance these reforms, hasten the approval processes, and ensure connections for both domestic and commercial PNG consumers in their regions," she emphasized.
Additionally, the country maintains sufficient stocks of aviation turbine fuel (ATF).
Meanwhile, 22 Indian vessels stranded in the Persian Gulf are transporting 320,000 tonnes of LPG, 200,000 tonnes of LNG, and 1.67 million tonnes of crude oil, reported Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary of Shipping, who reassured that all vessels and their crew members (totaling 611) are safe in the Gulf region.
"We are in discussions with Iran and other stakeholders to secure safe passage for our ships through the Strait of Hormuz," he added.
The Indian-flagged crude oil tanker, 'Jag Laadki', successfully docked at Adani Ports' Mundra in Gujarat on Wednesday morning.
Point of View
It is essential to report on the increasing domestic LPG production, which is commendable. However, the ongoing supply concerns due to geopolitical tensions highlight the vulnerability of our energy infrastructure. It is critical for state governments to take proactive measures in transitioning to more stable energy sources.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage has domestic LPG production increased?
Domestic LPG production has increased by 40 percent.
What are the current supply concerns related to LPG?
Supply concerns primarily stem from the geopolitical situation affecting the Strait of Hormuz, which is a key oil route.
Has there been any report of petrol shortage?
No shortages of petrol or diesel have been reported at petrol stations.
What is the government's plan regarding commercial LPG supply?
The government has offered a 10 percent increase in commercial LPG supply to states and UTs that assist in transitioning to PNG.
Are there any safety concerns for Indian vessels in the Persian Gulf?
All Indian vessels and crew members in the Gulf region are safe.
