Govt pushes PNG adoption as LPG supply concerns grow, urges commercial users to switch
PTC Web Desk: Amid mounting concerns over a possible shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), the Centre has called for careful consumption of the fuel while stepping up efforts to expand piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure across the country.
Addressing the issue, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Marketing and Oil Refinery) in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said supplies for domestic PNG and CNG consumers remain unaffected. She added that commercial LPG distribution, which had faced some disruption, is gradually being restored.
Highlighting the government’s approach, Sujata Sharma urged commercial establishments to consider switching to PNG, stating that such a move would significantly reduce the burden on LPG supplies. “Efforts are being made to stabilise the situation, and it would help if commercial users adopt PNG wherever possible,” she noted.
The appeal comes at a time when global supply challenges and increasing demand have raised concerns about LPG availability, especially for bulk and commercial consumers such as hotels, restaurants and catering services. Officials believe that diverting these users to PNG could help safeguard household LPG supplies.
To support the transition, the government is promoting wider access to PNG connections in urban centres. Consumers can apply through various channels, including online portals, call centres, emails or by directly contacting City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies. These companies have also been encouraged to actively approach potential users and, in some cases, offer incentives to speed up adoption.
In a parallel move to strengthen infrastructure, the Centre has written to states and Union Territories, urging them to fast-track approvals for CGD projects. In its March 16 communication, the government recommended granting automatic clearances for pending pipeline applications and ensuring new proposals are approved within 24 hours.
States have also been asked to ease regulatory hurdles by waiving road restoration charges, extending working hours for pipeline installation and appointing nodal officers to improve coordination and execution.
PNG, delivered through pipelines, is widely seen as a more reliable and continuous fuel source compared to cylinder-based LPG, particularly in areas where infrastructure is already in place.
- With inputs from agencies
