The government on Friday reassured that all refineries are operating at full capacity, with adequate crude inventory and sufficient LPG stocks available across the country, amid evolving developments in West Asia.
At an inter-ministerial briefing, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said domestic LPG production remains steady and supply chains are functioning smoothly.
LPG Supply Stable, Panic Booking Declines
Key highlights shared by officials:
- 11,300 tonnes of commercial LPG supplied in the past week
- Domestic LPG production increased by 40%
- No “dry-out” reported at retail outlets
- Online LPG bookings rose to 93%
- Significant reduction in panic booking
To curb irregularities, authorities conducted over 4,500 raids nationwide to check black marketing and hoarding.
Maritime Operations Normal, Seafarers Safe
Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, confirmed that:
- No maritime incidents reported in the last 24 hours
- 22 ships and 611 Indian seafarers are safe
- No congestion at ports across India
He added that the government is closely monitoring shipping movements, especially amid tensions in West Asia.
Notably, New Mangalore Port has announced concessions on charges for crude oil and LPG handling to support smoother operations.
PM Modi Engages Global Leaders on West Asia Situation
External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said Prime Minister Narendra Modi held discussions with leaders of:
- Oman
- Malaysia
- France
- Jordan
- Qatar
The Prime Minister emphasised:
- Dialogue and de-escalation
- Peaceful resolution of conflicts
- Condemnation of attacks on energy infrastructure
All sides reiterated support for safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
India Evacuates Nationals, Seafarers Returning Home
According to the Ministry of External Affairs:
- 913 Indian nationals evacuated, including 284 pilgrims, via the Armenia-Azerbaijan route
- 15 crew members of MT Safesea Vishnu expected to return to India
- Earlier, 24 rescued seafarers arrived from Oman
Additionally, Qatar Airways is expected to operate 10 special flights to India to assist in evacuation efforts.
Casualties and Ongoing Coordination
Officials confirmed that:
- Six Indian nationals have died in separate incidents across the Gulf region
- One person remains missing
Countries including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Iraq, and the UAE are coordinating with Indian authorities to:
- Trace missing individuals
- Facilitate repatriation of mortal remains
Govt Monitoring Situation Closely
The government reiterated that it is closely monitoring developments in West Asia, ensuring:
- Energy security and supply stability
- Safety of Indian nationals abroad
- Smooth maritime and trade operations
