Govt seizes 500 LPG cylinders as India intensifies energy security measures amid Israel-Iran war

The government has recently seized 500 illegally stored gas cylinders from a private gas agency premises in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, as part of its special enforcement to curb LPG black-marketing during the current gas shortage in India. The Centre has launched a massive, multi-sectoral response to the evolving situation in the Middle East focusing on stabilising domestic fuel supplies, expanding natural gas infrastructure, and ensuring the safety of Indian nationals abroad.

In an update released on Tuesday, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Ministry of External Affairs said, "Recently on 11th April 2026, Civil Supplies officials in Kerala seized approximately 500 illegally stored gas cylinders from a private gas agency premises in Attingal, Thiruvananthapuram. This raid was part of special enforcement to curb LPG black-marketing during the current LPG shortage. State departments are currently investigating the case."

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Indian government has empowered states under the Essential Commodities Act to curb hoarding. On April 13, over 2,950 raids were conducted across the country.

The govt has shared details of a series of "rationalisation measures" designed to counter the impact of the ongoing blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. To mitigate the shortage of LPG cylinders in the country, the government has shifted its focus to Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and targeted supply for vulnerable groups.

In an effort to protect domestic consumers and avoid panic, the government has increased booking intervals for domestic cylinders to 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural areas. It has also made efforts to double the supply of 5 kg FTL (Free Trade LPG) cylinders for migrant labourers.

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"Citizens are advised to avoid panic purchasing... the Government is taking all efforts to ensure 100% supply to domestic needs," govt said in an official press release.

India has stepped up diplomatic efforts to ensure energy security and welfare of the Indian nationals. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has held high-level discussions with counterparts in Kuwait, Israel, Singapore, and Australia to monitor the regional conflict and the welfare of the Indian diaspora.

Since February 28, The Centre has facilitated safe return of nearly 9.55 lakh passengers from the West Asia region back to India.