Government Resumes Distribution of Commercial LPG Cylinders Amidst No Retail Shortages
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 14 (NationPress) The government announced on Saturday that the distribution of commercial LPG cylinders has been reinstated across several states for specific industries, emphasizing that there have been no reports of LPG shortages at retail outlets nationwide.
During a briefing about the current fuel situation, Sujata Sharma, the Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refinery) at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, confirmed that commercial users will now have access to LPG.
“In several states, commercial cylinders are being delivered directly to industries to fulfill their operational needs,” she stated.
This initiative is expected to offer significant relief to various commercial entities, particularly in the restaurant and hospitality sectors.
She also noted that despite the ongoing geopolitical tensions, no fuel shortages have been observed. Sharma urged against panic purchasing, assuring the public that the country has sufficient LPG supplies.
She reiterated that even with the increase in bookings, the government is diligently monitoring the situation to ensure that both domestic and commercial consumers continue to receive LPG supplies.
Following the safe passage of two LPG carriers through the Strait of Hormuz, additional LPG tankers are scheduled to cross this conflict-affected area, as Iran has granted safe passage to Indian-flagged tankers. Reliable sources indicate that there are currently 28 Indian-flagged vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, with all vessels and crews being closely monitored for safety and security.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is actively overseeing the maritime situation in the Persian Gulf and has enhanced its monitoring and preparedness measures due to the evolving circumstances in that region.
The Strait of Hormuz remains a crucial shipping lane, facilitating the transit of 20 percent of the world's oil and gas exports.
In the meantime, two oil tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, are expected to arrive in the country within the next few days. These vessels, owned by the state-run Shipping Corporation of India Ltd., are being closely escorted by naval assets to ensure safe passage through these strategically sensitive waters.