Govt says 6000 raids conducted on March 18 against black marketing of LPG amid supply concerns

Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas

• 6000 raids conducted to monitor LPG distribution irregularities
• Online LPG bookings surged by 94% amid supply concerns
• Government urges states to fast-track PNG pipeline approvals

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Amid concerns over fuel availability during the ongoing West Asia tensions, the government has intensified enforcement actions across the country, conducting 6000 raids in a single day (March 18) to monitor irregularities in LPG distribution and usage.

The move comes as demand pressures and supply concerns continue to surface, particularly at the consumer level.

Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, highlighted the scale of recent interventions, stating, “6000 raids were conducted yesterday.” The enforcement push coincides with a sharp rise in demand indicators, with Sharma noting, “online bookings of LPG increased by 94%.”

A day before, Sharma acknowledged persistent challenges in last-mile delivery. “LPG issue is still worrisome. There is an improvement in online booking. But it is also true that there are long lines at distributors,” Sharma said, underlining the gap between availability and access.

The government, however, maintained that supply fundamentals remain intact. “Crude oil inventories are adequate,” Sharma said on Wednesday, adding that refineries are functioning normally and production levels have improved.

Domestic LPG output has reportedly risen by 40 per cent, even as instances of stockouts at retail points have been flagged.

To ease pressure on LPG supplies, authorities are accelerating the shift toward piped natural gas infrastructure.

“States are advised to facilitate new PNG connection for domestic and industrial consumers,” Sharma noted, pointing to a broader strategy of diversifying fuel access. In recent days, “1.5 lakhs new industrial and commercial PNG connections have been given,” she added.

The Centre has also urged states to fast-track approvals and clear pending applications for pipeline expansion projects. At the same time, consumers have been advised against panic buying, as the government prioritises household supply.