Amid disruptions in global energy supply triggered by the West Asia crisis, the Centre on Sunday relaxed rules governing the storage and distribution of kerosene to ensure its wider availability as an alternative fuel.In a notification, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas allowed designated fuel stations in kerosene-free states and Union Territories to store and distribute Public Distribution System (PDS) kerosene for household use. The move is aimed at supporting cooking and lighting needs in areas that had phased out kerosene under normal conditions.Under the temporary provisions, up to two fuel stations per district– preferably company-owned outlets of public sector oil firms — can store up to 5,000 litres of kerosene. Dealers and transporters have also been exempted from certain licensing requirements to enable faster distribution, while safety and monitoring norms will remain in force.The relaxation, issued under the Petroleum Act and Rules, will remain effective for 60 days, reflecting the government’s emergency response to evolving supply concerns.The decision comes as part of a broader strategy to diversify fuel access and ease pressure on LPG amid uncertainty over key shipping routes.Amid disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to the escalating West Asia crisis, the Centre said India’s fuel supply remains stable, backed by a rapid expansion of piped natural gas (PNG) connections and a steady inflow of LPG cargo.Since the conflict began, over 2.9 lakh PNG connections, including domestic and commercial users, have been provided across the country in March to reduce dependence on LPG. The government has directed city gas distributors to prioritise PNG connections for restaurants, hotels, and community kitchens.Two LPG carriers — BW TYR and BW ELM — carrying a combined cargo of about 94,000 metric tonnes are expected to reach India in the next two to three days, with arrivals scheduled at Mumbai and New Mangalore.Officials said refineries are operating at high capacity with adequate crude stocks, and fuel outlets are functioning normally nationwide, despite isolated instances of panic buying triggered by rumours.LPG distribution remains stable, with over 55 lakh cylinders delivered on Saturday and no reports of shortages. Commercial supplies have been restored to about 70 per cent of pre-crisis levels.Petroleum Secretary Neeraj Mittal said around 6,000 PNG consumers had voluntarily surrendered LPG connections, helping improve availability for others.On the maritime front, officials said all Indian seafarers in the region are safe, and port operations across the country remain normal.