Business
Strategic Energy Measures Intensified as West Asia Tensions Continue
Amid ongoing instability in West Asia and concerns over global energy supplies, the government has instructed public sector oil marketing companies to build LPG reserves sufficient for at least 30 days while enhancing India’s overall energy security framework.
The Government of India has directed state-run oil marketing companies to maintain Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) reserves sufficient for at least 30 days as a precautionary measure amid continuing geopolitical tensions in West Asia.
Speaking at an inter-ministerial briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said the government is taking proactive steps to safeguard the country against potential supply disruptions and volatility in global energy markets.
The directive applies to major public sector oil marketing companies including Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited.
Key Measures Announced
- Creation of LPG reserves sufficient for at least 30 days.
- Expansion of crude oil storage capacity.
- Additional storage planning beyond regular commercial inventories.
- Enhanced monitoring to prevent hoarding and supply disruptions.
- Strengthening of strategic petroleum reserves.
Fuel Supply Situation Remains Stable
Government officials emphasized that India currently has adequate stocks of:
- Petrol
- Diesel
- LPG
- Crude Oil
- Natural Gas
Refineries are operating at optimum capacity, while LPG production has reached a record level of approximately 92,000 metric tonnes per day.
Officials also reported that no LPG distributorship in the country has experienced a dry-out situation.
LPG Demand and Deliveries
In the past four days:
| Indicator | Figures |
|---|---|
| LPG Refill Bookings | 1.78 Crore |
| LPG Cylinders Delivered | 1.8 Crore |
| Digitally Authenticated Deliveries | 96% |
Authorities said enforcement agencies and oil companies have intensified inspections, leading to fuel seizures, FIRs, arrests, and action against dealers found violating regulations.
Maritime and Energy Logistics
Opesh Kumar Sharma informed that the crude oil tanker Nissos Keros has safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz and is expected to arrive at Visakhapatnam on June 3 carrying approximately 2.7 lakh metric tonnes of crude oil.
He added that all Indian seafarers in the Gulf region remain safe and no incidents involving Indian crew members have been reported.
Monitoring of Indian Nationals Abroad
Aseem Mahajan said Indian embassies and consulates across the Gulf and West Asia are operating round-the-clock helplines to assist Indian nationals. Flight connectivity from the region to India is also steadily improving with additional services being operated.
The government’s measures are aimed at ensuring uninterrupted energy supplies and protecting consumers from any potential impact of ongoing geopolitical developments in West Asia.