Government Pushes Rapid PNG Expansion as LPG Supply Pressures Mount

Amid growing pressure on LPG supplies due to ongoing geopolitical tensions in West Asia, the Centre and various government agencies have initiated efforts to accelerate the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) services across urban India.

A high-level roundtable meeting held at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi brought together central ministers, state representatives, and key stakeholders from the energy sector, including Gas Authority of India Limited (GAIL) and Indian Oil Corporation. The discussions focused on strengthening PNG infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted access to essential fuel services.

Target: 50 Lakh New PNG Connections

One of the key outcomes of the meeting was a proposed target to roll out 50 lakh new PNG connections across the country. The move is aimed at reducing dependence on LPG and offering a more stable and efficient fuel alternative to households and institutions.

Focus on Faster Implementation

Participants highlighted several measures to speed up PNG network expansion, including:

• Fast-tracking road-cutting permissions
• Introducing deemed approval systems
• Implementing single-window clearance mechanisms
• Ensuring time-bound approvals

However, challenges such as high right-of-way (RoW) charges and delays in municipal permissions were flagged as major hurdles. Stakeholders suggested rationalising or temporarily waiving such charges to facilitate quicker execution.

States and Agencies Join Hands

Representatives from multiple states—including Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Maharashtra, Haryana, and Odisha—participated in the discussions, while officials from Telangana, Karnataka, and Rajasthan joined virtually.

There was a strong consensus on improving coordination between city gas distribution (CGD) entities, municipal bodies, and state authorities to streamline approvals and enhance service delivery.

Policy Push from Key Ministers

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri encouraged states and urban local bodies to actively promote PNG adoption, especially in areas where infrastructure is already in place.

Minister Manohar Lal Khattar called for a mission-mode approach, stressing the need to integrate PNG infrastructure into urban planning and ensure last-mile connectivity.

Meanwhile, Minister Pralhad Joshi advised prioritising PNG adoption in public institutions such as schools and colleges, while strengthening monitoring systems to ensure smooth transition.

Shift Towards Cleaner and Reliable Fuel

Officials from the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas highlighted PNG’s advantages over LPG, including improved safety, affordability, and environmental sustainability.

The meeting concluded with broad agreement on a phased transition from LPG to PNG in areas with existing infrastructure. Authorities also emphasised the importance of consumer awareness and safeguards to prevent disruption during the transition.

With coordinated efforts from central and state governments, India is aiming to strengthen its energy resilience and reduce dependency on volatile global LPG supplies