LPG booking period increased from 21 to25 days; refineres asked to boost LPG output: Govt Sources
New Delhi, March 9
To prevent hoarding and black marketing, the booking period for LPG gas cylinders has been increased from 21 to 25 days, as per government sources.
"There were instances that people who were earlier booking LPG cylinders in 55 Days have started booking cylinders in 15 days," they said on Monday.
The government has ordered refineries to boost LPG output and also ordered to prioritise domestic LPG over commercial connections.
"Domestic consumers will always be a priority," the sources reaffirmed, as India scouts for more LPG partners. Countries like Algeria, Australia, Canada, Norway have approached to sell LPG to India, they added.
Petrol and diesel prices in India are unlikely to increase, unless and until crude oil prices breach USD 130 per barrel, government sources said.
The fuel prices are unlikely to increase as India has enough stock, the sources said.
"We expect crude oil prices to be around USD 100 per barrel," one of the sources said. "No problem of shortage of petrol and diesel at any pump in country."
They also said that sourcing crude other than the Strait of Hormuz route has been accelerated.
Further, the said sources indicated that India has enough stock of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). "India is a producer and exporter of ATF, no need to panic about ATF," they said.
India, the sources said, is better placed than other countries.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Good to hear domestic consumers are the priority! My mother was worried about cooking gas supply. The assurance on petrol/diesel prices is also a relief. Let's hope the global situation stabilizes soon. 🙏
While the intent is good, the real test is implementation. Will the delivery boys and local agencies actually follow the 25-day rule? Often, these directives get diluted at the ground level. The government must ensure strict monitoring.
Diversifying supply sources from Algeria, Australia etc. is a smart strategic move. Reduces over-dependence on any single region. India seems to be handling the energy crisis better than many European nations right now.
The part about people booking in 15 days vs 55 days earlier shows how panic affects supply chains. Public awareness is also needed. We shouldn't hoard. One cylinder at a time is enough if everyone is sensible.
Prioritizing domestic LPG over commercial is the right thing to do. It protects households, especially in smaller towns and villages where alternatives are limited. The overall communication from the government is reassuring.
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.