The Indian government has invoked the Essential Commodities Act to strengthen monitoring of the oil and gas sector amid a growing global energy crisis triggered by the ongoing conflict in West Asia.
Under a fresh notification issued through Section 3 of the Act, all entities involved in the production, refining, storage, transportation, and distribution of petroleum products and natural gas are now required to share detailed and near real-time data with the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC).
Stronger Oversight to Prevent Supply Disruptions
Officials said the move is aimed at improving preparedness and enabling the government to respond quickly to any potential supply disruptions. The PPAC, which already collects sector data, has now been empowered to gather more granular information to support decision-making during emergencies.
Any violation of orders issued under the Act may be treated as a criminal offence, with penalties including possible imprisonment.
Fuel Supply Remains Stable
Despite global uncertainties, the government has assured that fuel availability in India remains stable. Refineries are operating at full capacity, and petrol pumps across the country are functioning normally without shortages.
Supply of PNG (piped natural gas) and CNG (compressed natural gas) continues at full levels, ensuring uninterrupted access for households and businesses.
Shift from LPG to PNG Encouraged
To manage demand efficiently, authorities are encouraging commercial LPG users to switch to piped natural gas where infrastructure is available. This transition is being supported through incentives and faster connections.
-
Around 1.25 lakh new PNG connections have been provided in the past two weeks
-
Over 5,600 LPG users shifted to PNG in the last three days
Impact of West Asia Conflict
The ongoing conflict has disrupted global energy supply chains, particularly after attacks on key infrastructure in the Gulf region. India, which imports nearly 47% of its natural gas from Qatar, is closely monitoring the situation.
However, diversified sourcing from countries such as Russia, United States, Australia, and Norway has helped cushion the impact.
Measures to Curb Hoarding and Panic Buying
State governments and local authorities have stepped up efforts to prevent hoarding and black marketing. Control rooms have been activated, and inspections are being intensified.
Consumers are also shifting towards digital platforms:
-
94% of LPG bookings are now made online
-
83% of deliveries are verified through OTP-based systems
-
Panic buying has reduced significantly, with bookings dropping from 89 lakh to 57 lakh
