Center, states review LPG supply situation, call for tighter monitoring and safety

New Delhi: In view of the evolving situation in West Asia, Union Home Minister Govind Mohan on Wednesday chaired a review meeting with all states and Union Territories (UTs) on the LPG supply situation and advised senior officials of states/UTs to enhance the security of relevant infrastructure and personnel, monitor LPG supply on a daily basis and dispel rumors in real time to protect the LPG supply chain to avoid causing panic. The meeting was attended by state/UT chief secretaries and DGPs and Union ministers of petroleum and natural gas, information and broadcasting and consumer affairs ministries. The meeting was convened amid public concerns about restrictions on the supply of LPG on the market, given that conflicts in West Asia have directly affected major gas and oil suppliers.Sources told TOI that all states/Union Territories have been briefed on the LPG Control Order dated March 8, 2026, which directs refineries and petrochemical companies to maximize LPG production and prioritize supply of domestic LPG to household consumers. It was clarified that restrictions on LPG distribution apply to commercial establishments such as hotels and restaurants, while hospitals or educational institutions are not included in the scope of the order.All states/Union Territories are advised to ensure protection of LPG supply chain by enhancing security of relevant infrastructure and personnel. They were also advised to monitor local LPG supplies on a daily basis and take strict action against violators to maintain local law and order. States/Union Territories have been asked to carry out adequate publicity campaigns either directly or through oil marketing companies to allay concerns and counter rumors about LPG shortage and publicize the proactive steps being taken by the government to ensure adequate supply of LPG to households.States/Union Territories are further advised to closely monitor social media platforms and take immediate action to eliminate fake news and false narratives regarding the alleged LPG shortage by spreading old or irrelevant material, sources said.Meanwhile, the Ministry of Home Affairs has strengthened its control room operations, including nodal officers from the I&B Ministry and Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry, to operate on a 24×7 basis. This arrangement has been made to enable fact-checking and immediate clarification to states and union territories on any matter related to the current situation.