New Delhi: The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG) has dismissed reports claiming an increase in the waiting period for LPG cylinder refills, stating that there has been no change in the existing booking rules despite concerns over supply amid the ongoing West Asia conflict.
No revision in refill norms
In an official clarification, the ministry said that reports suggesting the waiting period between consecutive bookings for 14.2-kg LPG cylinders had been extended from 25 days to 35 days are incorrect.
It emphasised that the current norms remain unchanged, with the minimum gap between two refill bookings continuing to be 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural regions.
Appeal against panic booking
The ministry also urged consumers not to resort to panic booking, assuring that there is adequate LPG supply available across the country to meet demand.
Officials noted that misinformation circulating on social media and in sections of the media had led to confusion among consumers, prompting the need for a formal clarification.
Reports linked to supply concerns
The clarification comes in the backdrop of concerns over LPG supply due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia, which had triggered speculation about possible restrictions or revised norms.
Some earlier reports had suggested that the Centre, along with oil marketing companies such as Indian Oil Corporation, had increased the refill gap as part of efforts to manage supply constraints.
However, the ministry has categorically denied any such move, stating that no changes have been made to existing policies.
Confusion over scheme-based limits
Reports had also indicated variations in waiting periods based on connection types and cylinder sizes, particularly under welfare schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY).
According to those reports, the waiting period for PMUY beneficiaries was said to have been extended to 45 days, while a shorter gap of 16 days was mentioned for 5-kg cylinders under the scheme.
However, the ministry’s latest statement clarified that there has been no revision in these norms either, and that existing guidelines remain in force.
Supply remains stable
Officials reiterated that India’s LPG supply chain remains stable despite global uncertainties, and there is no immediate cause for concern among consumers.
They added that authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to take necessary steps if required, but as of now, supply remains sufficient.
Conclusion
The government’s clarification aims to put to rest concerns and prevent unnecessary panic among LPG consumers. With no changes in refill booking rules, authorities have advised the public to rely only on official information and avoid reacting to unverified reports.