LPG output rises 10 pc as refineries boost production after Centre's directions
New Delhi, March 10
In an effort to ensure adequate availability of cooking gas for households, India's oil refineries have increased liquefied petroleum gas production by about 10 per cent after directions issued by the Centre, government sources said on Tuesday.
The move has helped ease concerns raised by some groups about a possible supply disruption.
Sources said the government has also increased the waiting period for new LPG cylinder bookings from 21 days to 25 days in order to curb malpractices and prevent misuse of domestic LPG supplies.
"The government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to monitor the situation and ensure proper distribution of LPG," a government source said.
However, they emphasised that the Essential Services Maintenance Act has not been invoked.
"India is currently in a much better position compared to several other countries when it comes to energy availability," a government official said.
The officials added that the government is in constant touch with multiple countries to ensure that India's energy requirements are met without disruption.
While acknowledging that there were concerns earlier, sources said the situation has now been resolved, and supply chains are functioning normally.
All refineries across the country are operating at full capacity to maintain steady production, they added.
Sources also said that the government is closely monitoring the situation and is fully prepared to deal with any challenges if they arise.
"Household consumption remains the top priority," a source said.
The government also urged people not to believe unverified information circulating on social media regarding a possible LPG shortage.
Sources said that while some associations had written letters highlighting concerns about LPG availability, the government has still taken note of the issues raised and acted promptly to address them.
"The government feels that the letters written by a few associations highlighting the LPG crisis are by so-called associations, but still the government is acting on the concerns expressed by them," a source said.
"There is no crisis at all. We have enough energy sources available," the source noted.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Good to hear refineries are operating at full capacity. But increasing the waiting period for new bookings from 21 to 25 days is a bit concerning for new households. While I understand it's to prevent misuse, it might inconvenience genuine new customers. The government should find a balance.
As someone living in a metro, we haven't faced any major delays recently. It's reassuring to know the government is monitoring the situation under the Essential Commodities Act. The call to not believe social media rumors is very important – panic buying helps no one.
Household consumption being the top priority is the right approach. In my village, Ujjwala connections have been a game-changer. Hope this increased production ensures that subsidized cylinders reach beneficiaries without delays. Jai Hind!
While the proactive steps are good, the article mentions "so-called associations". Even if the government feels the crisis was overstated, it's good they acted on the concerns. This shows a responsive system. Let's hope for stable prices and supply now.
The real test is in the implementation. Increasing production is one thing, but ensuring last-mile delivery in all states, especially before major festivals, is another. The government being in touch with other countries for energy needs is a smart, long-term strategy.
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