New Delhi: The Union government on Thursday intensified measures to safeguard energy supply, maritime operations, and the welfare of Indian nationals in view of the evolving situation in West Asia.
The government said it is closely monitoring developments, including the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and has initiated a coordinated response to maintain stability across critical sectors.
All refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude inventories in place. Authorities have confirmed sufficient availability of petrol and diesel across the country. Domestic LPG production from refineries has been increased to support consumption, according to a release from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry.
Fuel retail outlets are functioning normally nationwide. The government acknowledged that rumours in some regions triggered panic buying, leading to unusually high sales and crowding. It clarified that adequate stocks are available at all petrol pumps and urged citizens not to believe misinformation.
Natural gas supply has been prioritised for domestic PNG connections and CNG transport, with 100% supply ensured for these segments. Industrial and commercial consumers connected to the grid are receiving around 80% of their average consumption. Authorities have directed city gas distribution companies to prioritise PNG connections for commercial establishments such as restaurants, hotels, and canteens to address concerns over commercial LPG availability.
The government has taken multiple steps to accelerate the expansion of city gas distribution infrastructure. It has urged states and union territories to expedite approvals for network expansion and facilitate right-of-way permissions. Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation has directed its offices to process applications within 10 days.
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board has instructed CGD entities to connect residential institutions, including schools, hostels, and community kitchens, through PNG within five days where pipeline infrastructure exists.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, in a press release, introduced an accelerated approval framework for CGD infrastructure with reduced timelines for a period of three months. The government has also notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, under the Essential Commodities Act to streamline approvals and facilitate faster pipeline expansion. Officials said these measures will strengthen last-mile connectivity and support the transition to a gas-based economy.
City gas distribution entities reported over 11,000 PNG connections across 110 key geographical areas in a single day, reflecting the push for rapid expansion.
LPG supply has been affected due to the geopolitical situation. However, domestic LPG distribution remains stable with no reported dry-outs at distributorships. Delivery of domestic LPG cylinders continues without disruption.
The government has increased the allocation of commercial LPG in phases. It has restored partial supply and raised the total allocation to 50%, including additional allocations linked to ease-of-doing-business reforms for PNG expansion. Priority sectors include restaurants, hotels, industrial canteens, food processing units, community kitchens, and subsidised outlets.
A total of around 25,922 metric tonnes of commercial LPG has been uplifted by entities across states and union territories since March 14. More than 37,000 five-kilogram cylinders were sold in a single day to support smaller consumers and migrant labourers.
To reduce pressure on LPG demand, the government has allocated an additional 48,000 kilolitres of kerosene to states and union territories. Several states have already issued allocation orders, while others are in the process of identifying distribution points.
On maritime operations, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways said in a press release that it is closely monitoring shipping movements and ensuring the safety of Indian seafarers. All Indian-flagged vessels in the region are reported safe, with no incidents recorded in the past 24 hours.
Twenty Indian-flagged vessels with 540 Indian seafarers remain in the western Persian Gulf. A 24×7 control room operated by the Directorate General of Shipping continues to assist stakeholders and has handled more than 4,200 calls and over 8,200 emails since activation. Authorities have facilitated the safe return of more than 674 Indian seafarers, including 39 in the past 24 hours.
Port operations across India remain normal, with maritime boards in coastal states confirming smooth functioning and no congestion.
In a press release, the Ministry of External Affairs said it is maintaining close coordination with Indian missions in the region. Missions are operating round the clock, issuing advisories and assisting Indian nationals, including students, seafarers, and short-term visitors.
Flight operations are gradually improving with additional services being arranged. Around 4.5 lakh passengers have returned to India since February 28. Authorities are facilitating travel through alternative routes where airspace restrictions remain in place, including transit through neighbouring countries.
The government said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and take necessary steps to ensure an uninterrupted energy supply, maritime safety, and the welfare of Indian citizens.
