IndianOil advises against panic booking of LPG cylinders amid global tensions, says supply stable
In a statement, IndianOil said that it was delivering around 28 lakh LPG cylinders daily and nearly 87 per cent of refill bookings are being made through digital platforms.
Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), the nation's biggest oil firm, has advised its customers against panic booking and hoarding of LPG cylinders amid disruptions to global energy markets due to the war on Iran. The oil firm also assured that the LPG supply in India remains stable and adequate despite geopolitical disruptions. It also added that domestic availability of LPG continues to be its top priority.
In a statement, IndianOil said that it was delivering around 28 lakh LPG cylinders daily and nearly 87 per cent of refill bookings are being made through digital platforms.
It said, “India's LPG supply remains stable, adequate, and under close monitoring, despite ongoing geopolitical developments impacting global energy markets. Domestic LPG (supply) continues to be accorded the highest priority.”
The company said the delivery of 28 lakh gas cylinders are “consistent with normal delivery levels prior to the onset of current geopolitical tensions.”
To book a refill of an LPG cylinder, the customers are advised to use digital modes such as SMS and IVRS for booking LPG refills. At present, nearly 87% of bookings are received through digital platforms.
IOC also said that it was actively listening to concerns shared on its social media platforms and remains committed to addressing them promptly.
"Reports of malpractices by certain LPG distributors have been noted through social media and customer complaints. To curb black marketing and hoarding, multiple cross-functional teams have been deployed to conduct surprise inspections of LPG distributorships," it said.
Speaking about malpractices, IOC said that the company was conducting inspections and have also taken action against over 140 distributors.
In coordination with state authorities and other oil marketing companies, around 68,000 raids have been carried out, leading to 855 FIRs and the seizure of over 48,000 cylinders.
"Action has been taken against 141 LPG distributors, including suspension of 5 distributors," it said. "IndianOil, as well as other oil marketing companies, is working closely with State Governments across the country to prevent malpractices and curb hoarding."
‘Avoid panic booking’
The oil firm also urged its customers to avoid panic bookings or cylinder hoarding.
"IndianOil reassures all Indane customers that supplies remain adequate and stable, and there is no shortage of LPG in the country. Customers are advised not to queue at LPG distributorships and to avoid panic booking or stocking of LPG cylinders. They are also urged not to believe in rumours and to rely only on official sources of information," the statement added.
Meanwhile, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), too, has assured uninterrupted supply of LPG and automotive fuels across the country amid shortage concerns.
In a statement, HPCL said, “In the LPG segment, HPCL recorded deliveries of 14,10,000 cylinders from its 55 bottling plants, reaffirming its commitment to prompt and reliable service.”
“Additionally, the Company supplied free trade LPC cylinders of 27,800 (5 kg) and 1,500 (2 kg). In the retail segment, HPCL achieved nozzie sales of 37,269 KL of Petrol and 75,356 KL of Diesel, reflecting stable supply trends,” it said.
(With PTI inputs)