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Amid rising tensions in West Asia and fears of energy disruptions, the Centre has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to safeguard LPG supplies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also reviewed the situation with key ministers.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held a high-level meeting to assess the situation
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday held a high-level meeting to assess the situation. The meeting was attended by Petroleum Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
During the review, the leaders examined the country’s LPG stock levels and discussed possible disruptions arising from the evolving geopolitical situation in West Asia. The government has directed officials to closely monitor supply chains and take preventive measures to maintain adequate fuel availability.
Govt invokes ESMA to ensure LPG supply amid West Asia crisis
The Centre has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to safeguard domestic fuel availability as tensions in West Asia continue to disrupt global energy markets. The decision aims to ensure uninterrupted supply of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) for households across the country.
Officials said the move was taken in response to concerns that the ongoing conflict involving Iran, Israel and the United States could strain international energy supply chains and indirectly impact India’s fuel market.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued a control order instructing refineries and petrochemical facilities to increase LPG production. Units have also been directed to divert key hydrocarbon streams into the national LPG pool to boost overall availability.
According to the ministry, the order establishes a priority framework for natural gas distribution to address potential supply constraints. Under the new guidelines, domestic piped natural gas (PNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) used in the transport sector will continue to receive 100 percent assured supply.
Other industrial sectors may face temporary caps based on their average consumption during the past six months.
LPG booking period increased from 21 to 25 days to prevent hoarding amid Middle East tensions
India’s major oil marketing companies have also stepped up efforts to ensure sufficient LPG stocks. In a joint statement, Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited said they are working closely with the government to enhance production and secure supplies.
The companies confirmed that LPG supply to domestic consumers will remain the top priority. Essential non-domestic sectors such as hospitals and educational institutions will also receive fuel as required.
For other commercial users, a committee of senior executives from the oil marketing companies has been set up to review requests and allocate LPG based on priority needs. The government said these steps are intended to stabilise the domestic fuel market during the ongoing geopolitical uncertainty.
