The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has begun to affect the supply of imported gas to India, leading to a major shortage of commercial LPG gas cylinders in several parts of the country. The shortage has raised concerns among gas agencies as well as hotel and restaurant operators. Delays in gas supply and limited availability have disrupted the cylinder distribution system, and if the situation continues, it could have a serious impact on the hotel, restaurant and food business in the coming days.
In view of the growing challenges, the government has changed the priority order for domestically produced natural gas. LPG production has now been given top priority along with compressed natural gas (CNG) and piped cooking gas. Following these government guidelines, Reliance Industries has increased LPG production at its refinery.
In a press release issued on Tuesday, the company said it is taking all necessary steps to maximise LPG production at the world’s largest refining and petrochemicals complex in Jamnagar, Gujarat.
Reliance said its team is working round the clock to enhance refinery operations and increase LPG production to ensure a stable and reliable gas supply to the domestic market. In addition, natural gas from the KG-D6 basin will be supplied to areas where it is needed most, in accordance with government regulations. The company said it is continuously coordinating with the Government of India to ensure fuel supplies reach the required locations.
Amid reports of a shortage of commercial LPG cylinders in several parts of the country due to the Middle East conflict, the government issued an official statement on Tuesday. According to the statement, LPG production in the country has been increased by 10 per cent, and all refineries are currently operating at full capacity.
Providing relief to consumers, the government said there is no shortage of LPG for domestic consumers, with an average of six million cylinders supplied daily. Any temporary shortage currently being experienced is being addressed by diverting gas supplies from industrial sectors.