West Asia War: Centre debunks LPG, fuel shortage rumours; IndianOil, BPCL urge avoiding panic buying

As the West Asia war rages rising fuel concerns, the Cente on Tuesday moved to quell growing concerns over fuel availability, dismissing reports of changes in LPG refill timelines and rumours of shortages of petrol and diesel as “misinformation”.

In a clarification, the ministry said claims circulating on social media about revised LPG booking intervals, ranging from 25 to 45 days depending on connection type, are incorrect. It reiterated that refill timelines remain unchanged at 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural areas, regardless of whether the connection is under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) or not.

The statement stressed that LPG stocks are sufficient across the country and urged consumers not to resort to panic booking.




Public sector oil companies also issued similar advisories.

IndianOil said there is no shortage of petrol or diesel, adding that its outlets are fully stocked and operating normally. It warned that unverified claims online could disrupt supply patterns by triggering unnecessary demand.

"There is no shortage of petrol or diesel. Rumours circulating online can create unnecessary concern and disrupt normal supply patterns. IndianOil outlets are well-stocked and fully operational. We urge citizens to avoid panic buying and rely only on verified information. Together, we can keep the system running efficiently for everyone," the stae-owned oil firm said in a post on X.



Bharat Petroleum echoed the assurance, stating that fuel availability remains stable nationwide and supply chains are functioning without disruption.

"Rumors of a petrol-diesel shortage are completely false. There is sufficient availability of fuel across the country and the supply is normal. BPCL is ensuring uninterrupted supply at all locations. Please do not panic and avoid unnecessary purchases," the oil company said in an X post, as well.

Hindustan Petroleum also urged consumers not to be misled by speculation, saying there is no shortage of petrol, diesel or LPG and that adequate stocks are available across the country. The company emphasised that supply remains stable and advised customers to maintain normal consumption patterns, reiterating its commitment to uninterrupted fuel availability.




Govt pushes gas infra

Amid rising uncertainty in global energy markets, the PM Modi-led Central government has introduced a new order under the Essential Commodities Act to accelerate the expansion of natural gas infrastructure across the country.

The order, which takes immediate effect, lays down a streamlined and time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines, aimed at removing bottlenecks and speeding up project execution.

Officials said the move is designed to create a transparent system that enables faster development of gas distribution networks, improves last-mile connectivity and widens access to cleaner fuels for households, transport and industry.

The policy is also expected to strengthen India’s energy security by reducing dependence on more volatile fuel sources. The decision comes as India navigates supply disruptions triggered by the West Asia conflict.

PM Modi has said in his first addressal on the matter in Parliament that the country is sourcing crude oil and gas from “all possible” avenues to cushion the impact. He has also flagged risks to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, warned of serious consequences if the conflict drags on, and stressed the need for diversification, strategic reserves and strict action against hoarding.