Updated 18 March 2026 at 16:36 IST
India Reports 40% Surge in LPG Output; 22 Stranded Indian Ships Safe Near Strait of Hormuz, Says Govt
The Indian government has launched a coordinated response to the West Asia crisis, boosting domestic LPG production by 40% and ensuring refineries run at 100% capacity. While 22 Indian vessels remain stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, they are reported safe, and essential cargo is being discharged. The government has urged citizens to rely on online bookings and ignore rumors, while Prime Minister Modi leads diplomatic efforts with UAE leadership to ensure regional stability.
India has significantly scaled up its domestic energy production and activated high-level diplomatic channels to insulate the country from the escalating West Asia crisis, senior officials said in a multi-ministry briefing on Wednesday.
The Ministry of Petroleum confirmed that domestic LPG production has surged by 40% since March 5 to counter supply disruptions, while the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) revealed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with the UAE President to address the regional security situation and the safety of Indian nationals.
Maximum Capacity, No Dryouts
Despite growing concerns over global supply chains, the Petroleum Ministry maintained that crude availability remains normal. Refineries are currently operational at maximum capacity, and the government reported zero dryouts at retail outlets across the country.
To manage the LPG situation in certain pockets, the government has:
- Shifted 93% of LPG bookings to online platforms, requesting consumers to avoid visiting distributors in person.
- Allocated an additional 10% of commercial LPG to all States and Union Territories (UTs).
- Issued an advisory to States/UTs to clear all pending Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connection requests to reduce the burden on bottled gas.
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing & Oil Refinery), Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, said, “The LPG issue is still worrisome. There is an improvement in online booking. But it is also true that there are long lines at distributors.” She added, “We request all citizens not to believe in rumors and to avoid panic booking." Surprise inspections were carried out at 2,300 retail outlets yesterday to curb black-marketing and hoarding.
Maritime Security
The Ministry of Ports, Waterways, and Shipping confirmed that 22 Indian-flagged vessels currently stranded West of the Strait of Hormuz are safe. A 24/7 control room is monitoring their status.
In a major relief for fuel stocks, cargo discharge is currently underway from two major LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi. The Ministry also reported that no congestion has been seen at major Indian ports, ensuring that arriving cargo moves quickly into the domestic supply chain.
The MEA highlighted active diplomatic efforts to protect both energy interests and the Indian diaspora. Prime Minister Modi’s discussion with the UAE President included a condemnation of attacks on the UAE’s civic infrastructure.
- Embassies in Tehran and across the Middle East are operational 24/7.
- Flight situations are improving, with limited non-scheduled flights operating from the UAE, Oman, and Saudi Arabia to various Indian cities.
- While regional tensions remain high, airspace in Qatar remains partially operational.
Published By : Shourya Jha
Published On: 18 March 2026 at 15:25 IST