New Delhi: The Centre has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to ensure an uninterrupted supply of domestic LPG across the country. The move comes after reports of a shortage of commercial cylinders from hotels and restaurants.
Officials have directed refineries and petrochemical plants to maximise LPG production. Authorities have also asked them to divert key hydrocarbon streams to the LPG pool. The step aims to increase the availability of cooking gas for households.
Natural Gas Supply Regulation Order Issued
The government has issued the Natural Gas (Supply Regulation) Order, 2026 to regulate the production and allocation of natural gas. The order covers LNG and re-gasified LNG supplies.
Under the new order, authorities will prioritise gas supply to critical sectors. These include domestic PNG supply, CNG for transport, LPG production, fertiliser plants, pipeline compressor fuel needs and tea industries.
The government has asked GAIL to implement the supply regulation. The company will work with the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC) to ensure sector-wise allocation of natural gas.
Waiting Period for LPG Refill Increased
The government has also increased the minimum waiting period for booking a domestic LPG refill from 21 days to 25 days. Officials say the step will prevent hoarding and panic buying.
Demand for LPG has risen by 15 to 20 per cent in recent days. Many consumers rushed to book refills due to fears that tensions in the Middle East could affect supply.
However, officials said there is no shortage of LPG in the country. They added that the waiting period will help manage inventory and stabilise supply.
An official said an average household consumes seven to eight 14.2-kg LPG cylinders a year. Most households do not need a refill in less than six weeks.
Fuel Prices Unlikely to Rise Now
A senior official said petrol and diesel prices will remain unchanged for now. Oil marketing companies — Indian Oil Corporation, Bharat Petroleum, and Hindustan Petroleum — will absorb the current cost pressure.
The government is monitoring global oil markets closely. However, there is no immediate plan to increase retail fuel prices.
Meanwhile, Parliament has been informed that India has crude oil and petroleum product reserves for about 74 days. The reserves can help the country manage supply disruptions during geopolitical tensions.
