Ahead of Asean summit, concealing Chandni Chowk's overhanging wires a major challenge

Amid rising energy anxieties linked to the West Asia conflict, the Centre has appealed for calm and urged citizens not to engage in panic buying of LPG cylinders. Officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said rumours about shortages have led to unnecessary queues outside distributors. The government assured that domestic LPG output has increased significantly and that supplies to households, hospitals and institutions are being maintained without disruption. While the closure threat around the Strait of Hormuz has tightened global energy supplies, authorities emphasised that India’s refineries are operating at full capacity and have adequate crude inventories. The government also confirmed that PNG and CNG supplies remain stable, urging urban consumers and businesses to consider piped gas connections where possible. Officials warned that strict action will be taken against hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders.