Government Cracks Down on LPG Hoarding, Seizes Over 15,000 Cylinders
Synopsis
In a bold move to combat hoarding and panic bookings, the government has conducted 12,000 raids, seizing more than 15,000 LPG cylinders. Officials stress there is ample supply, urging consumers to avoid unnecessary bookings and utilize online platforms for orders.
Key Takeaways
15,000 LPG cylinders seized in 12,000 raids.
Government assures there is no LPG supply shortage .
Panic buying led to a spike in bookings.
Compliance with Delivery Authenticity Code at 76% .
India diversifying LPG sources amid global issues.
New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) On Tuesday, the government announced that it has executed 12,000 raids, confiscating over 15,000 LPG cylinders to combat hoarding amidst rumors of shortages and panic purchases. Officials insist there is no supply shortage nationwide.
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, emphasized that LPG supply is sufficient despite a surge in demand.
With approximately 70,000 bookings recorded on Monday alone due to panic buying, she urged consumers to refrain from unnecessary orders and explore alternative arrangements when possible.
Sharma highlighted the high rate of digital adoption, noting that nearly 94 percent of domestic LPG bookings are made online. She encouraged consumers to utilize online platforms and avoid demand driven by panic.
Moreover, she mentioned that compliance with the Delivery Authenticity Code (DAC) has risen to 76 percent.
Several states, including Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Manipur, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand, are taking measures to allocate non-domestic LPG for essential services.
In related news, Special Secretary for Shipping, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, confirmed that all 22 vessels and Indian crew members in the Gulf region are safe, with 161 Indian nationals repatriated in the last 24 hours.
Regarding incoming supplies, Sinha stated that the LPG carrier Nanda Devi reached Kandla port early Tuesday morning, with cargo being transferred from larger vessels to smaller ships for further distribution. This follows the docking of another LPG carrier, Shivalik, at Mundra port on Monday.
The arrival of these shipments coincides with a period when global energy markets are experiencing disruptions due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, heightening concerns over LPG availability.
Furthermore, the government disclosed that India has begun sourcing LPG from various global channels, including the United States, to diversify its supplies amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
Point of View
The government's proactive measures against LPG hoarding are commendable. Amidst rising fears of shortages, maintaining supply integrity is essential for consumer trust and market stability. By emphasizing online bookings and compliance, officials are navigating a challenging landscape effectively.
NationPress
20 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the government conduct raids on LPG cylinders?
The government conducted raids to combat hoarding amid rumors of LPG shortages and panic buying.
How many LPG cylinders were seized?
Over 15,000 LPG cylinders were seized during the raids.
Is there a real shortage of LPG supply in India?
Officials have stated that there is no actual supply shortage of LPG in the country.
What is the current compliance rate for the Delivery Authenticity Code?
Compliance with the Delivery Authenticity Code has improved to 76 percent.
How can consumers avoid panic buying?
Consumers are encouraged to avoid unnecessary bookings and utilize online platforms for their LPG orders.
