The government sought to assuage the concerns of citizens regarding the supply of LPG gas, petrol and diesel amid reports of temporary shortages and delays in supply in some areas due to the ongoing Middle East conflict affecting energy shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.
In a social media post, the Union ministry of petroleum and natural gas assured that all petrol pumps across the country have adequate availability of petrol and diesel.
Pointing out the instance of people taking petrol in loose containers in Tamil Nadu, the ministry noted that such a practice is "unsafe and not advisable."
"Consumers are advised not to take or store petrol or any fuel in loose or inappropriate containers, as it poses serious safety risks," the government said.
Action has been initiated against the petrol pump in Tamil Nadu that was allowing customers to carry petrol in containers.
"All retail outlets and dealers have been instructed to strictly follow safety guidelines while dispensing fuel. Any violation will invite strict action," the notification from the ministry said.
Meanwhile, Sujata Sharma, joint secretary (marketing & oil refinery), ministry of petroleum & natural gas, also said there is enough petrol and diesel available.
"As far as crude oil and refineries are concerned, we have a sufficient supply of crude, and our refineries are operating at full capacity. No instances of stockouts have been reported at retail outlets; ample petrol and diesel are available. We produce sufficient petrol and diesel domestically to meet our requirements; consequently, we have no need for imports."
She said while the supply of LPG gas is a matter of concern, there have been no stockouts reported so far.
She admitted that there has been panic booking. "Regarding the LPG supply, I must state that it remains a matter of concern for us in light of the prevailing geopolitical situation; however, no stockouts have been reported thus far. I would like to re-emphasise one specific point: instances of panic booking remain excessively high. The figure I shared with you yesterday—approximately 7.5 to 7.6 million bookings—has now risen to nearly 8.8 million," she was quoted as saying.