Amid the ongoing war between America, Israel and Iran, attacks on energy plants have taken global tension to its peak. The oil and gas crisis has already increased and now it is expected to increase further. 22 countries of the world have together appealed to Iran to stop the attacks and open the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, the Government of India has also activated its Plan-B (Modi Govt Plan-B) and has intensified measures for shipping security including fuel supply.
Government officials have assured that there are sufficient reserves of petrol, diesel and LPG in the country and the refineries are working at full capacity. Apart from this, Indian ships are also being closely monitored in the Gulf.
Steps taken to stop panic buying
According to the report of Business Today, due to increasing tension due to war in the Middle East, there are obstacles in global energy routes, the most worrying issue of which is the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Amidst the poor global conditions, the Central Government has intensified emergency measures to maintain smooth fuel supply, safe movement on sea routes and to provide assistance to Indian citizens.
According to officials, India has crude oil, petrol, diesel and LPG available in sufficient quantities. Additionally, additional steps have been taken to prevent panic buying of LPG across the country due to supply disruption.
Fuel supply and refinery status
Official sources said that all the refineries of the country are working at full capacity. There is sufficient reserve of crude oil to meet domestic demand. The stock of petrol and diesel is sufficient and there is no shortage of fuel in the retail sector. The government has appealed to the citizens not to make panic purchases of oil and gas. Oil distribution companies are continuing regular supply as per the guidelines. LPG production has also been increased, which has reduced panic cylinder bookings in recent times.
LPG supply to businesses and priority sectors
The government has restored partial commercial LPG supplies and increased allocation to states to ease supply disruptions for businesses. Now the total availability has reached around 50% and priority has been given to restaurants, hotels, industrial canteens, hospitals, education institutes and community kitchens.
PNG and coal supplies in emergency measures
City gas distribution companies have been instructed to provide PNG connections on priority to both homes and commercial establishments. Additionally, additional kerosene allocation has been approved for states and coal supplies have been increased for small-medium consumers. According to officials, these steps have been taken with the aim of maintaining energy security in case global shipping is disrupted.
Surveillance on Indian ships in Hormuz
The Ministry of Ports and Shipping is continuously monitoring the movement of Indian ships since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. For this, a 24×7 control room is active, which gives continuous updates. Officials said that so far no incidents involving Indian ships have come to light amid the attacks.
PM Modi talked to regional leaders
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to other regional leaders including Iran and Bahrain and emphasized on keeping the sea routes open as well as the security of the global supply chain. The government made it clear that the safety of Indian citizens and unhindered maritime trade is our top priority. The government has appealed to the citizens to trust only official information and not fall prey to rumours.