Officials say 40% of oil flows through Strait of Hormuz, but diversified sourcing and alternative routes like Cape of Good Hope ensure energy security
Amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia and concerns over possible disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, government sources have sought to reassure citizens that India has adequate crude oil and fuel reserves and there is “no need to panic or hoard.”
According to officials, India currently holds around 25 days of stock of crude oil and petroleum products, including petrol and diesel. In addition, LPG inventories are sufficient for approximately 25–30 days, providing a buffer against short-term supply shocks.
Diversified sourcing
Sources said that while around 40 per cent of India’s oil imports transit through the Strait of Hormuz, the remaining 60 per cent is sourced through alternative sea lanes and supplier geographies, reducing overdependence on a single chokepoint.
The Strait of Hormuz, located between Iran and Oman, is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, handling nearly a fifth of global oil trade. Any disruption in the narrow waterway often triggers volatility in global crude prices.
However, officials emphasized that India’s import basket is geographically diversified, including suppliers from the Americas, Africa, and Russia, which do not necessarily rely on Hormuz for shipment.
Alternative routes in place
Government sources also highlighted that alternative shipping routes remain available, including longer passages such as the Cape of Good Hope route around southern Africa, in case of escalations that affect Gulf transit.
While such routes may increase transit time and freight costs, officials said contingency planning is already in place to manage logistics disruptions.
Strategic and commercial buffers
Apart from commercial inventories maintained by oil marketing companies, India also has strategic petroleum reserves designed to cushion temporary supply disruptions. Sources indicated that energy planners are closely monitoring developments and coordinating with refiners and marketing firms.
The government’s message is clear: there is no immediate threat to fuel availability, and citizens should avoid panic buying or hoarding of LPG cylinders and petroleum products.
Officials added that energy security mechanisms are functioning as designed and that India remains prepared to manage short-term external shocks.
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