New Delhi | March 17,2026 | SKY LINK TIMES
LPG Hoarding Crackdown: 15000 Cylinders Seized
The government has launched a nationwide crackdown on LPG hoarding, conducting over 12,000 raids and seizing more than 15,000 cylinders amid rising concerns triggered by rumours of supply shortages. Officials have clarified that there is no shortage of LPG across the country and urged consumers to avoid panic buying.
The move comes after a sudden spike in demand, driven by misinformation and fear of disruption in supply chains linked to global tensions.
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Panic Buying Triggers Massive Demand
According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, nearly 70,000 LPG bookings were recorded on Monday alone, significantly higher than usual levels. Officials attributed this surge to panic-driven consumer behaviour rather than actual supply issues.
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refinery), stated that LPG availability remains sufficient to meet domestic demand. She appealed to consumers to refrain from unnecessary bookings and to rely on regular supply schedules.
Digital Bookings and Compliance Improve
The government highlighted strong digital adoption in LPG bookings, with around 94 per cent of consumers using online platforms. Authorities have encouraged continued use of digital systems to ensure smoother distribution and avoid overcrowding at distribution points.
Additionally, compliance with the Delivery Authenticity Code (DAC) system has improved to 76 per cent, helping enhance transparency and prevent misuse in LPG delivery.
States Ensure Supply for Essential Services
Several states, including Bihar, Delhi, Haryana, Rajasthan, Manipur, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Karnataka, and Uttarakhand, have taken proactive measures to allocate non-domestic LPG cylinders for essential services. This ensures uninterrupted supply to hospitals, hotels, and other critical sectors.
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Supply Chain Strengthened Amid Global Tensions
Amid ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, the government has taken steps to secure LPG supplies from multiple global sources, including the United States. This diversification aims to safeguard India’s energy needs against potential disruptions.
Special Secretary (Shipping) Rajesh Kumar Sinha confirmed that all 22 LPG vessels and Indian crew members in the Gulf region are safe. He also reported that 161 Indian nationals have been repatriated in the last 24 hours.
On the supply front, the LPG carrier Nanda Devi arrived at Kandla port on Tuesday, while another vessel, Shivalik, docked at Mundra port a day earlier. Authorities are transferring cargo to smaller ships to ensure efficient distribution across regions.
Government Reassures Citizens
The government has reiterated that LPG supplies remain stable and sufficient, urging citizens not to fall prey to rumours or engage in panic buying. Officials emphasized that strict action will continue against hoarding and black-marketing to maintain market stability.
With enhanced monitoring, diversified imports, and coordinated efforts between central and state authorities, the government aims to ensure uninterrupted LPG availability for households and essential services.
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