The government has affirmed that India has sufficient oil and fuel supplies for nearly two months. It has also urged people not to panic over rumors of shortages. The current energy supply crisis is due to the ongoing Middle East crisis. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has already secured crude oil supplies for the next 60 days. Apart from this, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have also tied up imports in advance. India imports 60% of its oil and gas supply, out of which, 90% comes through Middle East and passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Refineries across the country are running on full capacity.
Currently, India’s total reserve capacity stands at 74 days, while the actual stock is available for 60 days. The government has already planned additional procurement. There is no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG anywhere in the country, the government has affirmed. All fuel stations are operating normally and there is no need to panic, the government said. Any isolated rush at the petrol pumps was due to panic created by the circulation of fake news on social media, says the government official. LPG supply has also been strengthened and domestic production has also increased significantly.
Recently, the government has also urged the citizens to install Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections instead of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) connections. It is part of a long-term move towards cleaner and more affordable energy. Centre has also warned against the false information being spread online. It said that some posts and videos are creating unnecessary panic. Citizens are being advised to rely on official statements. The government has also warned against people who are spreading fake news.
