Amid rising concerns about possible disruptions in the supply of petrol, diesel and LPG in the national capital due to escalating tensions in West Asia, the central government has constituted a high-level three-minister committee to monitor the situation closely. The panel, chaired by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, has been tasked with ensuring the seamless distribution of fuel across Delhi and preventing any panic-driven shortages.
The committee was constituted on Thursday (March 12) and includes External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Hardeep Singh Puri. The decision comes in response to growing speculation about potential supply disruptions triggered by the ongoing conflict involving Iran and the United States near the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz.
Authorities moved swiftly to counter rumours that had begun circulating regarding possible shortages in Delhi. Earlier in the day, Delhi Chief Secretary Rajeev Verma convened a review meeting with representatives from oil marketing companies, officials from Indraprastha Gas Limited, Delhi Police and the food and civil supplies department. The meeting confirmed that fuel stocks remain adequate across the city.
As a precautionary measure, LPG booking intervals have been temporarily extended to 25 days. Meanwhile, priority supply of domestic PNG and CNG has been ensured for essential services and key sectors to maintain uninterrupted operations.
Officials from the Delhi government have emphasised that there is no actual shortage of petrol, diesel or domestic LPG. Supplies continue to move normally despite tensions in the Middle East. To prevent artificial scarcity, enforcement agencies including Delhi Police and revenue officials have been directed to intensify monitoring and take strict action against hoarding, theft and black marketing.
The newly formed ministerial panel will conduct daily stock assessments, monitor supply chains and ensure fair allocation of fuel across sectors. Authorities are also working to restore around 80 percent of industrial gas supply flows, which had been temporarily adjusted to prioritise domestic requirements.
The appointment of Amit Shah as chairman reflects the government’s focus on strong crisis management and coordination. Shah has previously led major coordination efforts during emergencies, including administrative responses during the COVID-19 pandemic in the national capital.
The committee is expected to regularly brief Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the evolving situation. Oil marketing companies have also reassured consumers that reserves remain robust and that home delivery of LPG cylinders continues within two to three days.
By establishing the task force, the government aims to prevent panic buying, maintain stability in fuel distribution and reassure citizens that India’s energy security remains under control despite global supply uncertainties linked to the Strait of Hormuz
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