Fuel supply normal, PNG expansion accelerates: Govt assures stability
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): The central government has clarified that the supply of petrol and diesel is completely normal across the country and all retail petrol pumps are operating smoothly. According to the government, there is sufficient stock available to meet the country's needs and there is no shortage anywhere. The government stated that all refineries are operating at high capacity and there is adequate stock of crude oil. Although rumors led to panic buying in some areas, the situation is now completely under control and all petrol pumps are operating normally.
The government stated that domestic PNG (piped natural gas) and CNG transport supplies are being maintained at 100% capacity. Industrial and commercial consumers are being supplied approximately 80% of their average consumption, ensuring their operations are uninterrupted and the country's economic activity can continue.
Meanwhile, the government has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026. Its purpose is to accelerate the expansion of pipeline networks across the country. This new framework will facilitate timely pipeline laying and reduce land-related issues. The expansion of PNG connections has also accelerated. A record 9,046 new PNG connections were provided in a single day across more than 110 geographical areas. To promote this work, companies like Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) and GAIL are offering new incentives. In Delhi, the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has allowed 24-hour pipeline laying and waived road repair charges.
To further expedite the process, the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO) has been directed to process CGD (city gas distribution) applications within 10 days. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has directed that PNG connections be prioritized for locations such as residential schools, hostels, and community kitchens within five days.
The government has also taken a major step regarding LPG supply. The allocation of commercial LPG to states and union territories has been increased by 50 percent. This additional supply is being prioritized in 5-kg cylinders for hotels, eateries, restaurants, and migrant workers. Additionally, states have been offered an additional 10 percent of commercial LPG, depending on how quickly they transition consumers from LPG to PNG.
Cracking down on irregularities, over 2,700 raids were conducted in a single day under the Essential Commodities Act, resulting in the seizure of 2,000 cylinders. More than 650 FIRs have been filed so far, and 155 people have been arrested.
To reduce LPG demand, 48,000 kiloliters of additional kerosene has been allocated to states. Additionally, the Coal Ministry has directed states to increase coal supplies to small and medium-sized consumers to provide them with alternative energy.
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the extension of the Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration and Tracking (IVFRT) scheme for five years beyond March 31. This scheme will cost ₹1,800 crore. Additionally, to strengthen air connectivity in the country, 100 new airports will be built under "Challenge Mode," at an average cost of ₹100 crore per airport. Additionally, 200 modern helipads will be developed under the revised UDAN scheme.