Chandigarh (Naval Kishore): In a joint advisory issued on Saturday, April 4, 2026, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) reassured the public across Punjab and the Union Territory of Chandigarh that domestic LPG stocks remain sufficient to meet current demand. The statement, released by Ashutosh Gupta, Executive Director of IOCL and State Level Coordinator for the Oil Industry in Punjab, emphasized that there is no shortage of cooking gas and that replenishment cycles are operating normally. The advisory aimed to quell recent concerns regarding supply stability, urging residents to refrain from panic purchasing.
To further enhance accessibility, OMCs have introduced an expanded rollout of Free Trade LPG (FTL) 5kg cylinders. These smaller cylinders are specifically designed to assist migrant workers and individuals who do not possess a regular registered domestic LPG connection. By providing a “no-hassle” option for daily cooking requirements, the oil industry intends to support the most mobile and underserved sections of society during the current period of high demand. Distributors across the region have been directed to maintain transparent operations and ensure these FTL units are readily available for immediate purchase.
Digital booking and delivery guidelines:
The industry coordinator has requested all consumers to transition exclusively to digital booking modes for their refills. To ensure a transparent and secure transaction, customers are now required to acknowledge the receipt of their cylinders using the Delivery Authentication Code (DAC) provided at the time of booking. This digital-first approach is intended to streamline the distribution process, eliminate potential black-marketing, and ensure that genuine customers receive their supplies without delay.
The statement concluded with a call for public cooperation to maintain an efficient distribution network. Officials reiterated that the state’s energy infrastructure is robust and that the ongoing coordination between various oil majors ensures a steady flow of both domestic and commercial LPG. By following the prescribed digital protocols and avoiding bulk hoarding, residents can help the OMCs maintain the high service standards currently established across the northern region.
