Gas relief arrives: Commercial cylinder supply restored in 29 states, govt says 'no shortage'

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Amidst the ongoing tensions in West Asia, the outcry over gas shortages in India is now beginning to subside. Recently, amid the war-like situation, the halt in the supply of commercial cylinders caused widespread panic across the country. However, the government has now taken a major step to address this crisis. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refinery) of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, provided significant relief to citizens in a press conference on Saturday. She stated that after extensive discussions with state governments, the supply of commercial gas cylinders has now resumed in 29 states and union territories. Consumers in these states have now begun receiving cylinders smoothly.

There is sufficient stock of petrol, diesel and gas in the country, no need to panic

Completely dismissing rumors of a gas shortage, the Joint Secretary clarified that there is no shortage of gas, crude oil, or refinery resources in the country. India has sufficient reserves of petrol, diesel, and gas to meet its needs. He stated that while the situation remains serious, there is no shortage of cylinders. The biggest problem is panic booking by people. He appealed to the general public to avoid panic booking and to avoid unnecessary crowds at dealers. Gas companies will continue to supply cylinders to households as before.

Emphasis on shifting commercial consumers to PNG

The government is also working rapidly to transition commercial LPG consumers to PNG. Sujata Sharma stated that consumers who can be immediately provided with a PNG connection will receive this facility on a priority basis. Unnecessary panic booking of LPG is putting pressure on the entire supply chain, so people have been strictly advised to book gas only when they truly need it.

Rapid raids on black marketing, FIR against 19 in UP

The government has also begun cracking down on those exploiting the current situation to black market gas. On March 13th, oil marketing companies conducted surprise inspections at over 1,300 locations across the country. To crack down on black marketing, joint teams of oil company officials have been formed in several states, with the state government playing a crucial role. Taking strict action, surprise checks were conducted at 1,400 locations in Uttar Pradesh alone, and 19 FIRs were registered. Furthermore, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) has issued new guidelines, allowing alternative gas arrangements in Delhi-NCR to ensure that residents do not face any inconvenience.