govt-restores-commercial-lpg-supplies-to-pre-crisis-levels

The Centre has restored commercial Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) supplies to pre-crisis levels, withdrawing temporary restrictions imposed during supply disruptions triggered by the recent West Asia crisis.

 

In a communication to chief secretaries of all states and Union Territories, Petroleum and Natural Gas Secretary Dr Neeraj Mittal said the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas had decided to remove all sectoral restrictions on the supply of Non-Domestic Packed LPG as the supply situation had improved.

 

The restrictions were introduced to ensure uninterrupted availability of cooking gas for domestic consumers during a period of uncertainty arising from geopolitical tensions in West Asia.

 

With the latest decision, commercial LPG supplies will return to levels prevailing before the crisis. The ministry has also eased curbs on bulk LPG supplies, allowing restoration of supplies up to 50 per cent of pre-crisis consumption levels.

Also read: Over 17.25 lakh 5-kg LPG cylinders sold since March 23: Govt

According to the ministry, commercial and industrial consumer data will continue to be maintained by Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). It has also proposed the creation of a unified database across the three public-sector OMCs to improve monitoring and supply management.

 

Even as LPG supplies are normalised, the government has reiterated its push for wider adoption of Piped Natural Gas (PNG), which is considered a cleaner fuel alternative.

 

Commercial and bulk consumers who have already switched to PNG have been advised to continue using the fuel. The ministry has also directed that LPG consumers with access to PNG networks, or those in the process of obtaining connectivity, should be permanently shifted to PNG wherever feasible.

 

To facilitate the transition, OMCs and City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities will coordinate efforts to migrate eligible consumers to PNG. A reporting mechanism will also be established to track progress and ensure regular updates are submitted to the ministry.

 

The decision is expected to bring relief to hotels, restaurants, industrial units and other commercial establishments that had faced supply constraints during the period of heightened tensions in West Asia.

 

The government said the move reflects improved supply conditions and its commitment to maintaining energy security while promoting cleaner fuel alternatives.