The government on Wednesday said that India is in talks with Iran and other countries for safe passage of Indian ships amid Hormuz blockade, and stated that the LPG issue is still worrisome. However, the government noted that there is improvement in online booking.
"Domestic LPG production has increased by 40% and the retail outlets haven't seen any dry out," said Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Further stating that the LPG issue is still worrisome, the official said that there is an improvement in online booking, but it is also true that there are long lines at distributors.
"Online bookings have seen sharp improvement, and it has increased to 93%. Whereas, 81% of cylinders are being delivered through OTP."
She also requested consumers to wait after making an online booking, adding, "The cylinder will be delivered to your home, and there is no need to visit the distributor."
"We appeal to all of you that wherever LPG consumers, especially commercial consumers, can shift to PNG, and where the CGD network is available, they are required to make the switch."
Speaking about the action being taken by the government, Sharma stated that more than 2,300 surprise inspections were carried out by OMCs on LPG distributors yesterday.
"The Government of India has offered all States/UTs an additional 10% allocation of commercial LPG provided they can help in the long-term transition from LPG to PNG. Now, the onus is on the state and union territory governments to take these reforms forward, expedite approvals, and ensure connections for both domestic as well as commercial and industrial PNG consumers in their respective areas."
Ministry Of External Affairs Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that India is in talks with Iran and other countries for safe passage of Indian ships as many ships are still there in Strait of Hormuz.
"Indian Vessels in the region have loaded stocks of 3.2 LMT LPG, 2 LMT LNG, and 16.7 LMT Crude."
Meanwhile, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Shipping, said that all Indian ships and seafarers are safe and there have been no incidents.
"22 ships and 611 seafarers are still in the region. Cargo discharge is being done by OMCs from Nanda Devi and Shivalik.
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