After petrol and diesel, now LPG crisis, PM Modi called a high-level meeting; These big instructions were given to the officers

New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting on Sunday. In the meeting, India’s preparedness for fuel, energy and essential resources was reviewed amid increasing tension in West Asia. In this, the focus was on important sectors like petroleum, crude oil, natural gas, electricity and fertilizers.

Main objective of the meeting

The focus of the meeting was to ensure that the supply chain runs smoothly, logistics remain strong and distribution of essential resources across the country is smooth. Senior officials and representatives of line ministries briefed the PM about current stocks, import dependence and preparedness to deal with any possible disruption. This review has become necessary due to increasing geopolitical tension in West Asia.

Fuel prices and gas shortage concerns

Petrol and diesel prices are mostly stable in big cities. In Mumbai, petrol is around Rs 103 per liter and diesel around Rs 90. However, recently due to rising prices of crude oil, premium petrol has increased by more than Rs 2. The biggest concern is the shortage of natural gas and LPG.

India imports a large amount of LPG and natural gas from the Gulf region. Tension around the Strait of Hormuz is causing delays to ships, with many tankers stuck. Due to this, LPG consumption has decreased rapidly.

The effect is visible on the ground

In many cities, long queues are forming outside gas agencies and CNG stations. People are waiting for hours. The situation is worsening in some areas due to panic buying and hoarding. In cities like Vijayawada, auto drivers running on CNG are waiting for hours. Crowds and tension have been seen at LPG distribution centers in some parts of Maharashtra.

The government has given priority to domestic LPG and increased allocation to essential sectors. There are some restrictions on commercial use, due to which many restaurants are partially or completely closed.

PM Modi’s instructions

The Prime Minister stressed on better coordination between ministries. He said that there should be no shortage, prices should be controlled and panic should not spread among the people. He instructed officials to strengthen contingency plans if the conflict in West Asia escalates further.

India imports a large portion of energy from the Gulf, so the situation is being constantly monitored. At present there is no major crisis, but initial pressure is visible in gas supply. The government is on alert mode.