No shortage of LPG, petrol, diesel: Government

The Delhi Government on Thursday assured residents that there is no shortage of LPG, petrol, diesel, or piped natural gas (PNG) in the national capital and urged citizens not to indulge in panic buying or hoarding.

Officials said adequate stocks of all major fuels are available, and the supply chain across the city continues to function normally.

The Government also warned that strict action will be taken against black marketing or illegal diversion of domestic LPG cylinders. According to the government, concerns about possible supply disruptions have led to panic bookings and confusion among consumers in some areas.

Authorities, however, said the situation remains stable, and there is no reason for residents to worry.

Officials from Indraprastha Gas Limited informed the government that the supply of domestic PNG in the capital is stable. Natural gas allocation continues to prioritise domestic consumers as well as the transport sector that depends on CNG.

Representatives of major oil companies also confirmed that the supply of petrol, diesel, and domestic LPG cylinders in Delhi remains adequate.

The companies said the fuel distribution system is operating smoothly and there has been no disruption in the supply chain. To manage demand and ensure orderly distribution of cylinders, the government has revised the minimum interval for LPG refill bookings.

Officials said the booking interval has been increased from 21 days to 25 days. Despite this change, consumers are still receiving their LPG cylinders within an average of two to three days after placing a booking. Authorities explained that the revision is intended to streamline distribution and discourage unnecessary bookings during periods of high demand.

For example, if a consumer received a cylinder on February 1, the next booking can be made on or after February 26 under the revised system. The government has also encouraged consumers to use digital platforms to book LPG cylinders instead of visiting distribution centres physically. Consumers can place bookings through several channels, including company websites, SMS services, IVRS calls, missed-call facilities, and WhatsApp.

Officials said these digital options are designed to make the booking process faster and more convenient for residents. The Department of Food, Supplies, and Consumer Affairs has also deployed field officers to monitor the situation and assist consumers if any difficulties arise. Enforcement teams have been instructed to conduct inspections to prevent hoarding and black-marketing of LPG cylinders.

Authorities are also keeping a close watch on the illegal use of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial purposes, such as in restaurants and small eateries. Officials said such diversion of subsidised cylinders disrupts supply meant for household use, and strict action will be taken against violators. At the same time, the government said arrangements are being made to ensure a regulated supply of commercial LPG cylinders for businesses.