New Delhi: The Indian government is actively monitoring the escalating situation in West Asia and has implemented comprehensive preparedness measures across critical sectors including energy, shipping, and citizen safety.
This coordinated effort comes amidst ongoing geopolitical developments in the region and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy chokepoint.
The Chenab Times has learned that official updates indicate robust operational capacities within the energy sector. All refineries are functioning at peak output, supported by ample crude oil inventories, while stocks of essential fuels like petrol and diesel are reported as sufficient to meet domestic demand. Domestic production of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) has also been increased, ensuring that retail fuel outlets nationwide continue to operate without interruption.
To safeguard national availability and buffer against potential price volatility, the central government has previously reduced excise duty on petrol and diesel by ₹10 per litre. Additionally, export levies were imposed on diesel and aviation turbine fuel. Authorities have cautioned the public against any propensity for panic buying, attributing isolated instances of crowding at fuel stations to unsubstantiated rumours.
In the natural gas sector, supplies are being strategically prioritised for household piped natural gas (PNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) for transportation. Industrial gas supply is currently operating at approximately 80 per cent of its average consumption levels. Efforts are underway to secure additional Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) cargoes and expedite the expansion of city gas distribution networks across the country.
While LPG supplies have experienced some impact due to the prevailing geopolitical climate, the government has confirmed no reported shortages at distributorships. Domestic deliveries remain on schedule, with over 55 lakh refills distributed on Saturday alone. Commercial LPG allocations have been progressively restored to 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels, with a clear emphasis on prioritising key sectors such as hospitality and industry.
To further alleviate pressure on LPG demand, supplementary allocations of kerosene have been made available to states and union territories. The Centre has also directed state governments to enhance enforcement actions against hoarding and black marketing practices. Authorities are conducting regular public briefings and actively working to counter misinformation campaigns. Recent enforcement operations have included nearly 2,900 raids, resulting in the seizure of approximately 1,000 LPG cylinders.
Regarding maritime operations, all Indian seafarers in the West Asian region are reported to be safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels registered in the past 24 hours. Two LPG carriers, collectively transporting about 94,000 metric tonnes of cargo, are currently en route to India. Port operations across the country are functioning normally.
The Directorate General of Shipping has facilitated the repatriation of over 900 Indian seafarers to date and maintains continuous monitoring of vessels traversing the Persian Gulf region through a dedicated 24/7 control room. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that it is closely monitoring the evolving regional dynamics. Special control rooms and helplines have been activated, and Indian missions in affected countries are operating around the clock to provide essential assistance, including travel and visa support, to Indian nationals.
Since late February, over 5.24 lakh passengers have been repatriated from the region back to India. Air travel continues to operate in a calibrated manner, with alternative flight paths established for countries experiencing airspace restrictions.
The government has reiterated its advisory for citizens to refrain from panic purchases, rely solely on official information sources, and practice energy conservation during this period of heightened regional uncertainty.
The Chenab Times News Desk