Amid concerns regarding fuel availability, Shri Ashutosh Gupta, Executive Director and State Head, IOCL Punjab State Office, and State Level Coordinator for the Oil Industry in Punjab, addressed a press conference on Tuesday, reassuring citizens that the supply of petroleum products and LPG remains stable and adequate across Himachal Pradesh. He emphasized that there is no disruption in supply and urged consumers to avoid panic-driven actions.

Shri Sushant Kumar, State Level Coordinator (SLC), Chandigarh, and Shri Parmeshwar, LPG In-charge for Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, were also present during the conference.

Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) reassured the public that the supply of petroleum products and LPG remains stable and sufficient to meet current demand. Shri Ashutosh Gupta said that the stock position of Motor Spirit (MS) and High-Speed Diesel (HSD) is normal across the state. OMC depots are maintaining healthy inventory levels, while retail outlets have sufficient stock to ensure uninterrupted sales. There is no cause for concern regarding the availability of automotive fuels.

India’s LPG supply remains stable and is closely monitored to ensure uninterrupted delivery to domestic consumers despite ongoing geopolitical developments affecting global energy markets. Domestic LPG continues to receive the highest priority.

Oil Marketing Companies have maintained uninterrupted LPG supply to households across Himachal Pradesh, with cylinder deliveries continuing almost in line with pre-crisis levels.

Customers are encouraged to use digital methods such as SMS and IVRS for booking refills. Currently, around 91% of bookings in Himachal Pradesh are received through digital modes. Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) compliance stands at approximately 85% to ensure that cylinders reach genuine customers, he said, adding that the All India averages for digital booking and DAC compliance are 95% and 90%, respectively.

OMCs are actively monitoring and responding to concerns raised on social media, ensuring that genuine issues are addressed promptly. Relevant updates and information are being regularly shared through official communication channels.

Complaints regarding malpractices by certain LPG distributors are being taken seriously. To curb black marketing and hoarding, multiple cross-functional teams have been deployed to conduct surprise inspections of LPG distributorships across Himachal Pradesh. Strict action is being taken against errant distributors.

Additionally, data analysis of distributor performance parameters is being undertaken to identify irregularities and guide inspection efforts. OMCs are working closely with the Government of Himachal Pradesh to control malpractice and prevent hoarding, with multiple enforcement raids already conducted across the state.

Customers are advised to avoid panic booking or hoarding of LPG cylinders and not to rely on rumors. They are urged to follow only official sources for accurate information. LPG supply and delivery remain normal and stable, and there is no shortage. Consumers are also requested not to queue unnecessarily at LPG distributorships.

To further support demand, commercial LPG allocation has been increased up to 70% of pre-crisis levels. Additional measures include doubling the allocation of 5 kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders to support migrant laborers and other vulnerable sections.

Oil Marketing Companies reaffirm their commitment to ensuring seamless LPG availability, maintaining transparency in distribution, and enforcing strict measures against malpractices.

 

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