NO FUEL SHORTAGE, NO LOCKDOWN
New Delhi, Mar 28, 2026 : The government on Friday dismissed rumours of a possible lockdown and reassured citizens that there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG across the country, even as tensions in West Asia continue to disrupt global energy markets.
In an inter-ministerial briefing, officials emphasised that supply chains remain fully operational and adequate fuel stocks are being maintained, urging the public to avoid panic buying and not fall prey to misinformation circulating on social media.
Amid a sharp surge in global crude oil prices triggered by the ongoing crisis, the government announced a reduction of ?10 per litre in excise duty on petrol and diesel to shield consumers from rising costs. At the same time, export duties have been imposed on diesel (?21.5 per litre) and aviation turbine fuel (?29.5 per litre) to prioritise domestic availability. Domestic refiners have also been directed to divert 50 per cent of exported petrol and 30 per cent of exported diesel to the local market, ensuring uninterrupted supply.
Officials said all refineries are operating at high capacity, with sufficient crude inventories in place. Retail fuel outlets across the country are functioning normally, although isolated instances of panic buying were reported due to rumours. The government reiterated that there is no cause for concern, adding that enforcement agencies are actively cracking down on hoarding and black marketing, with over 3,000 raids conducted and more than 1,500 LPG cylinders seized.
To further stabilise supply, domestic LPG production has been increased by 40 per cent, while the allocation of commercial LPG has been raised to 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels. Priority is being given to key sectors such as hospitality, food processing, and critical industries. Additionally, over 10,500 new PNG connections were issued across 110 areas in a single day, as part of efforts to promote alternative fuel adoption and reduce dependence on LPG.
On the natural gas front, the Government confirmed that domestic PNG and CNG transport segments are receiving full supply, while industrial users are being supplied at around 80 per cent of their average consumption. City Gas Distribution companies have been directed to prioritise PNG connections for essential institutions such as schools, hostels and community kitchens, with approvals for infrastructure expansion being fast-tracked.
Addressing maritime concerns, officials said India’s shipping and port operations remain unaffected, with no congestion reported across major ports. Around 540 Indian seafarers aboard 20 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf region are safe, while over 699 have already been repatriated. A 24×7 control room continues to assist seafarers and their families.
The Centre also underlined that the safety of Indian nationals in West Asia remains a top priority. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, currently attending the G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in France, held discussions with global counterparts on the evolving situation, stressing the need for resilient supply chains and reforms in global governance.
With nearly 4.75 lakh passengers having returned to India since late February amid airspace disruptions, Indian missions in the region are operating round the clock to assist citizens. Special arrangements, including alternative travel routes and limited flight operations, are being facilitated to ensure safe movement.
The government said it will continue to monitor the situation closely and review developments on a fortnightly basis. It urged citizens to rely only on official sources for information, conserve energy, and cooperate with authorities to maintain stability during the ongoing global uncertainty.