Ignore rumors of gas and petrol shortages; government says reserves are full, no need to panic
The government has clarified that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, and cooking gas in the country; our reserves are full. This assurance has significantly reduced the crowds at gas agencies and panic bookings. Instead of waiting in lines, people are now booking their gas online from the comfort of their homes.
If you, seeing news of the ongoing tensions in West Asia, rushed to the gas agency, fearing a fuel shortage in the country, then here's some very comforting news for you.
The central government has clarified that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or cooking gas (LPG) in India, and that the country's supply is completely stable.
Following this assurance from the government, panic bookings have declined significantly across the country.
Brake on panic booking
According to government updates, daily LPG bookings have dropped from 8.88 million to 7.7 million (Saturday's figures). This significant decline clearly indicates that the common man's fear of shortages is now subsiding.
Additionally, a positive change is that online gas booking rates have increased from 84 percent to 87 percent. Oil companies launched a special campaign urging people to use digital means instead of standing in long lines outside gas agencies, and the results are now clearly visible.
What is the truth behind the shortage of petrol and diesel?
Many people were wondering if there would be sufficient petrol and diesel available for their vehicles. The government has assured that all refineries are operating at full capacity and that we have sufficient crude oil reserves.
The situation is completely under control. The country is currently self-sufficient in petrol and diesel production, and there is no need to import fuel to meet domestic demand.
Oil companies have also confirmed that there have been no incidents of fuel shortages (dried-outs) at any petrol pump or LPG distributor across the country.
Government's 'action plan' on black marketing
The administration has also begun cracking down on profiteers at the mere hint of a crisis. In several states, including Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, raids are being conducted to prevent black marketing and hoarding of LPG cylinders.
Officials from state-owned oil companies are conducting surprise inspections of gas agencies to prevent disruptions in the supply chain.
Furthermore, commercial LPG cylinders have been handed over to the governments of 30 states and union territories for priority distribution if needed.
Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, and Rajasthan have also issued strict orders for the allocation of non-domestic LPG, in accordance with government guidelines.