Kamal Ghorui
Amid ongoing geopolitical tensions straining global oil supplies, the government has said that it is ensuring uninterrupted fuel availability across the country and is closely monitoring maritime safety in the Middle East.Reassuring citizens, the ministry of petroleum and natural gas said there has been no disruption in household LPG supply. “Domestic LPG cylinder deliveries remain normal against bookings with more than 53.5 lakh domestic LPG cylinders delivered yesterday,” it said.The ministry further urged people not to rush to fuel stations or stock up on supplies. It said, “Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchase of petrol, diesel and LPG as the Govt is making all efforts to ensure availability of petrol, diesel and LPG.”It further assured that essential services remain fully supported, stating, “100% supply is being made to Domestic LPG, Domestic PNG and CNG (Transport),” while supply management measures are being taken as needed.At the same time, the government pointed to changes in consumer behaviour in the energy sector. It said, “more than 39,000 PNG consumers surrendered their LPG connections via MYPNGD.in,” suggesting a gradual shift towards piped natural gas. It also noted a rise in auto fuel demand, adding that “avg. Auto LPG sale by PSU OMCs in the month of April-26 (till 17.04.26) is around 305 MT/day against the avg. of 177 MT/day during Feb-26.“On the maritime front, authorities confirmed that Indian shipping continues to move safely through the region despite risks. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said, “Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Desh Garima safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz on 18 April 2026,” adding that the vessel, carrying 31 Indian seafarers, is “expected to arrive at Mumbai on 22 April 2026.”However, it also acknowledged recent security incidents, noting that “two Indian vessels… reported a firing incident while transiting the Strait of Hormuz,” though “there has been no injury to any crew reported.”The shipping ministry said the situation is being closely tracked, adding, “All Indian seafarers are safe. The situation continues to be closely monitored.”On fuel availability, the petroleum ministry said refineries are running at strong capacity and “sufficient stocks of petrol and diesel are being maintained,” with retail fuel stations operating normally across the country.To cushion consumers from global price shocks, the government highlighted recent fiscal steps, saying, “The Middle East crisis has led to an abnormal increase in crude prices; however, to protect consumers, the Government of India has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by Rs 10 per litre.”It also intensified action against malpractice in the supply chain, stating that “more than 2400 raids were conducted across the country” on April 18 to check hoarding and black marketing of LPG.Officials said that coordinated efforts with states, industry stakeholders and agencies are ongoing to ensure energy security and uninterrupted supplies despite global uncertainty.
