Government Steps Up Fuel Supply, Seafarer Safety Measures Amid West Asia Tensions

Over 1.5 lakh raids conducted, 66,000 LPG cylinders seized; 2,680 Indian seafarers repatriated so far

New Delhi: The Government of India on Thursday outlined a series of coordinated measures across energy supply, maritime safety, and citizen outreach to manage the evolving situation in West Asia, while assuring uninterrupted availability of fuel and safety of Indian nationals in the region.

At an inter-ministerial media briefing held at the National Media Centre here, officials from the Ministries of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and External Affairs provided updates on preparedness and response mechanisms.

Authorities emphasised that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel, or LPG, and urged citizens to avoid panic buying and rely only on official information sources.

Fuel Supply Stable, Enforcement Intensified

The government said 100% supply is being maintained for domestic LPG, PNG, and CNG segments, despite geopolitical pressures.

Enforcement actions to curb hoarding and black marketing have been intensified. More than 1.5 lakh raids have been conducted across the country so far, leading to the seizure of over 66,000 LPG cylinders. Over 1,100 FIRs have been registered and 255 persons arrested.

In addition, penalties have been imposed on 298 LPG distributorships, with 70 suspended following inspections by oil marketing companies.

Daily LPG supply remains robust, with more than 52 lakh domestic cylinders delivered on April 22 alone. Online booking has reached 98%, while delivery authentication mechanisms have been strengthened to prevent diversion.

Commercial LPG, Alternate Fuel Push

Commercial LPG allocation has been scaled up to about 70% of pre-crisis levels, with priority given to hospitals, educational institutions, and key industrial sectors.

The government is also promoting alternate fuels to reduce pressure on LPG demand. Since April 1, over 17 lakh 5 kg free trade LPG cylinders have been sold, with special focus on migrant labour segments.

PNG adoption is being accelerated, with more than 41,000 consumers voluntarily surrendering LPG connections so far via the MYPNGD platform.

Refinery Operations, Price Stability Measures

All refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude stocks, ensuring stable supply of petroleum products.

To shield consumers from rising global crude prices, the government has reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre, while maintaining retail prices at public sector outlets.

Maritime Safety: Indian Seafarers Secure

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reported incidents of firing on foreign-flagged vessels in the Strait of Hormuz involving Indian crew. However, all Indian seafarers on board the affected vessels are safe.

A total of more than 2,680 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated so far, including 65 in the last 24 hours.

Shipping operations remain stable, with Indian ports functioning normally and no congestion reported.

Indian Nationals in West Asia: Monitoring and Support

The Ministry of External Affairs said it is closely monitoring developments in the region, with dedicated control rooms and round-the-clock helplines operational.

Indian missions are actively assisting nationals with travel, consular services, and evacuation support where required. Since late February, over 12.12 lakh passengers have travelled from the region to India.

Officials said coordinated efforts between central ministries, states, and Indian missions are ongoing to ensure safety, supply stability, and timely information dissemination.