PNG Adds 1.25 Lakh New Connections in Two Weeks, 5,600 Customers Shifted in Three Days The central government announced that nearly 17 state governments have issued allotment orders for commercial LPG, and all states and union territories are now receiving commercial LPG supply. The ministry stated that the situation remains critical due to the Middle East war, but there are no reports of LPG shortages in any distribution areas. On the previous day, LPG online bookings reached 56 lakh, while supply amounted to 55 lakh. Delivery of LPG cylinders is proceeding normally. Joint secretary of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, Suzata Sharma, revealed that 1.25 lakh new connections were added to PNG in the last two weeks, and 5,600 LPG customers shifted to PNG in the past three days. She emphasized that the government is making every effort to ensure domestic customers have access to LPG and urged people to rely only on official information rather than rumors. Sharma highlighted that the Middle East conflict has created a concerning situation, but there are no reports of LPG supply shortages in any distribution channels. She noted that the government has requested all state governments to take necessary steps to prevent black market activities and enforce legal action against violations. According to state government reports, control rooms have been established in 31 states and union territories, and district-level monitoring committees have been formed in 25 states and union territories. The ministry also mentioned that 15 states and union territories have issued orders for additional kerosene allocation. Sharma stated that there has been a reduction in panic-driven bookings, with approximately 57,000 refill bookings received the previous day.#middle_east_war #lpg #suzata_sharma #png #petroleum_and_natural_gas_ministry

India Introduces New LPG Cylinder Booking Numbers to Address Panic Purchases In response to rising panic over LPG cylinder availability, the Indian government has launched additional booking numbers to streamline the process and curb unnecessary demand. The Petroleum Ministry has announced new contact channels, including missed call services and WhatsApp numbers, to ensure seamless access to gas cylinders while preventing exploitation. Key Details on New Booking Numbers: Missed Call Numbers: 8454955555 (for IOCL/Indane bookings) 7588888824 (WhatsApp) 8454955555 (for PNG connections) Helpline: 1800-2333-555 (24/7, no additional charges) Existing Numbers: All previous contact details remain operational. Ministry's Appeal to Citizens: Petroleum Ministry Additional Secretary Suzata Sharma emphasized that India’s crude oil supply is sufficient to meet domestic demand, and there is no shortage of LPG. She urged citizens to avoid panic purchases and book cylinders only when necessary. Combating Black Market Activities: The ministry has intensified raids to curb black market activities, with over 1,300 inspections conducted by March 13. Collaborative efforts between state governments and oil companies have led to the seizure of illegal operations, including 19 FIRs in Uttar Pradesh. Digital Booking Encouraged: Residents are advised to use digital platforms for bookings instead of visiting dealers, reducing delays and ensuring transparency. The ministry also highlighted efforts to connect commercial LPG users to PNG (Piped Natural Gas) networks. Context: The initiative follows reports of surging panic purchases amid Middle East tensions and supply chain uncertainties. The government aims to stabilize the market and ensure equitable distribution of resources.#india #petroleum_ministry #suzata_sharma #png_connections #up_uttar_pradesh