Amid looming concerns of gas supply shortage due to the escalating US-Iran war, the Indian government on Wednesday urged citizens to refrain from "panic booking". The cylinders of liquified petroleum gas (LPG) for households will be available as per their usual delivery cycle, the oil ministry said in a press briefing.
"Some panic booking and hoarding has increased due to misinformation. There is no need for customers to rush and book cylinder," said Sujata Sharma, joint secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, while speaking to reporters in New Delhi. The delivery cycle of LPG for domestic use remains 2.5 days, she clarified.
The official noted that steps are being taken to ensure that households do not face a shortfall. Accordingly, the government has increased the gap between gas booking from 21 days to 25 days.
Further, Sharma underlined that at a distributor level, the Centre has implemented a system for delivery code wherein the cylinder will only be delivered once user receives an OTP.
The government also added that there are two LNG cargoes that are on the way to India, even as the domestic LPG production has increased by 25%.
"This is a difficult time with many challenges.Our energy is secure and several steps have been taken," she stated.
ALSO READ: Gas Crunch: 47.4 Mmscmd Of Supply Hit, Govt Admits; Says Two LNG Cargoes On Way
According to the oil ministry, 47.4 million metric standard cubic metre per day of supply has been hit due to the Gulf crisis. The country's daily gas consumption stands at around 189 Mmsmd, Sharma said, adding that the government has already passed a gas control order and is prioritising supplies to households.
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