New Delhi, Mar 20 (UNI) The Government on Friday reassured citizens about the availability of fuel and the stability of supply chains, while also outlining ongoing diplomatic and evacuation efforts amid the evolving situation in West Asia.
Speaking at a press briefing, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Sujata Sharma, said that “all refineries are operating at the highest capacity with adequate food inventories,” adding that “domestic LPG production has reached almost 40 per cent.”
She emphasised that “there is no dry out on retail outlets and sufficient stock is available,” while urging consumers to adopt alternative fuel options. “In the case of natural gas, as we have appealed to all consumers to shift to PNG, the state governments have also requested and written letters,” she said, noting that “on 18th, an additional 10 per cent LPG allocation has been discussed in a letter.”
Highlighting recent developments, Sharma said, “Approximately 7,500 consumers have shifted from LPG to PNG.” She added that a request from Rajasthan for additional allocation is “under consideration.”
Addressing concerns, she acknowledged that “the situation is still worrisome due to the LPG war,” but reiterated that “no dry out has been reported on our distributors.” She further noted that “almost 93 per cent of the booking is online” and “delivery is being done through the Delivery Authentication Code.”
On supply logistics, Sharma said, “yesterday, we received a request for about 55 lakh refilled bookings. The delivery of LPG cylinders is normal.” For commercial LPG, she stated that “about 18 states and union territories have issued allocation orders,” with “about 11,300 tonnes” supplied in the last week.
“About 50 per cent of the allocation has been given to educational institutions and hospitals,” she added, while noting similar allocation efforts for kerosene across 15 states and union territories.
She also highlighted monitoring and enforcement measures. “In about 32 states and union territories, control rooms have been set up,” and “yesterday, more than 4,500 raids were conducted all over the country.” Specific enforcement actions included “about 1,100 raids” in Uttar Pradesh and multiple operations across states including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Punjab, Rajasthan and Delhi.
Special Secretary for Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, confirmed that maritime operations remain stable. “There have been no reports of maritime incidents in the last 24 hours. All of our 22 ships and 611 vessels are safe. They are in the Persian Gulf region,” an official said.
“DG Shipping is continuously monitoring them,” the official added, noting that helplines handled “more than 250 calls and more than 250 emails” in the last 24 hours.
Providing an update on port operations, the official reiterated, “There is no congestion in any port… whether it is a major port or other than a major port.” Measures to ease cargo handling include waivers and expanded storage. At New Mangalore Port, “the waiver of ground and reefer charges… have been provided for stranded export containers,” along with “an additional covered shed of 3500 square meters” and “an open yard of 76,000 square meters.”
Meanwhile, the government detailed diplomatic outreach led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who “has spoken to five world leaders yesterday,” including leaders of Oman, Malaysia, France, Jordan and Qatar.
Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson Ministry of External Affairs said that during these conversations, the Prime Minister put forth India’s position on the ongoing conflict in West Asia, stressing “the need to prioritise dialogue and diplomacy for de-escalation and the subsequent restoration of peace and stability. “He also strongly condemned attacks on energy infrastructure and reiterated support for safe and free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz,” Jaiswal added.
The government confirmed that “in total, 913 Indians have crossed over Iran through land borders,” while “284 pilgrims… have now returned to India.”
Providing updates on evacuation and travel, Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf), Ministry of External Affairs said since February 28, around 300,000 passengers have returned from the region to India. “Air connectivity is gradually improving, with around 90 flights… expected to operate from various airports in UAE to India on Friday.”
He said that special arrangements are also underway. “Qatar Airways is expected to operate 10 non-scheduled commercial flights to India today,” while “Jazeera Airways of Kuwait is expected to commence special non-scheduled commercial flights… with the first flight today to Kochi.”
Authorities noted that “Kuwait airspace remains closed” and “Bahrain airspace remains closed,” with alternative routes being facilitated via Saudi Arabia.
Officials expressed condolences over casualties, stating, “we received information regarding the tragic demise of an Indian national during an attack in Riyadh on 18th March.” They added, “six Indian nationals have unfortunately lost their lives and one is missing in various incidents.”
Missions across the region “are in regular touch with the concerned authorities” and continue to assist with “repatriation of mortal remains” and support for stranded citizens.
Additionally, “15 Indian crew members of MT SafeSea Vishnu… are expected to return… today,” while “24 rescued Indian seafarers… have earlier arrived in India from Oman.”
