India Assures No Fuel Shortage Amid West Asia Crisis, 2,400 Raids Launched Against Hoarding

New Delhi, March 23, KNT: The Government of India on Monday said there is no shortage of fuel in the country despite escalating tensions in West Asia, asserting that supplies of petrol, diesel and LPG remain stable while warning against panic buying and hoarding.

Senior officials from multiple ministries, including Petroleum and Natural Gas, External Affairs and Shipping, briefed the media in New Delhi, outlining measures taken to maintain energy security and ensure the safety of Indian nationals in the region.

The assurance comes amid concerns over disruption of global energy supplies following developments around the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route, which has raised fears of shortages and price volatility.

Officials said all refineries in India are operating at high capacity with adequate crude stocks, and no fuel “dry-outs” have been reported at retail outlets.

“There is no shortage of petrol and diesel, and supplies are being maintained regularly. Citizens are advised not to resort to panic buying,” an official said.

The government also said domestic LPG supply remains stable, with panic bookings having reduced significantly in recent days.

To manage demand and improve long-term supply stability, authorities are pushing for a transition towards piped natural gas (PNG), with more than 3.5 lakh domestic and commercial connections issued in March alone.

Strict enforcement measures have also been launched to curb hoarding and black marketing. Officials said around 2,400 raids have been conducted across states in the past 24 hours, leading to the seizure of over 800 LPG cylinders.

So far, nearly 550 FIRs have been registered and around 150 persons arrested in connection with violations, they added.

The government has directed states and union territories to maintain vigilance under provisions of the Essential Commodities Act and related laws, and to take stringent action against offenders.

On the maritime front, authorities said operations remain stable, with no congestion reported at major ports and no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels in the past 24 hours.

Officials said 22 Indian-flagged vessels and around 600 Indian seafarers are currently in the western Persian Gulf region, with all reported to be safe.

The Directorate General of Shipping continues to monitor the situation through a 24×7 control room, which has handled thousands of calls and emails since its activation.

The government also provided an update on Indian nationals in the region, stating that around 3.75 lakh passengers have returned to India since late February as part of ongoing efforts to facilitate travel amid disruptions.

In Iran, over 1,000 Indians, including hundreds of students, have been assisted in crossing into neighbouring countries such as Armenia and Azerbaijan for onward travel to India.

Officials said Indian missions in West Asia remain operational round the clock, coordinating evacuation, travel assistance and advisory services.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also engaged with global leaders, including the President of Iran, expressing concern over attacks on critical infrastructure and stressing the importance of maintaining open and secure shipping routes.

Authorities reiterated that India’s priority remains ensuring uninterrupted supply of essential commodities and safeguarding its citizens abroad, while closely monitoring developments in the region. [KNT]