Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri on Thursday assured that there is no shortage of fuel in India despite rising concerns following the disruption of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking in the Lok Sabha, Puri said the country has adequate supplies of petroleum products and that the government is closely monitoring the situation amid the ongoing tensions in West Asia.
“There is no shortage of petrol, diesel, kerosene, ATF or fuel oil. The availability of petrol, diesel, aviation fuel and fuel oil is fully assured,” the minister said while addressing concerns about potential disruptions in energy supply.
India Navigating Impact of Global Conflict
Puri acknowledged that the current geopolitical situation is unprecedented and could have global consequences. Although India is not directly involved in the conflict, he said the country must still deal with the economic and energy-related impacts.
“The world has not faced a moment of this kind in history. Despite India having no role in the conflict, it has to navigate the consequences,” he stated.
Diplomatic Efforts Help Secure Crude Supply
The minister credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic outreach for ensuring stable crude oil supplies despite the disruption in one of the world’s most critical oil shipping routes. According to Puri, India has secured crude volumes that exceed what would normally have been delivered through the Strait of Hormuz during the same period.
He also addressed concerns regarding LPG availability across the country, stating that India’s crude oil and domestic LPG supply remain fully protected despite the ongoing crisis.
Global Energy Concerns Continue
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial maritime route through which a significant share of the world’s oil supply passes. Any disruption in the region can impact global energy markets and fuel prices.
With tensions escalating in West Asia, governments and energy markets worldwide remain on alert. However, Indian authorities maintain that domestic fuel supplies are stable and there is no immediate risk of shortages.