Government Initiatives Drive PNG Connectivity Across India

Government Pushes Mission-Mode Expansion of PNG Network, Targets 50 Lakh New Connections​

New Delhi, March 28: Union Minister Manohar Lal on Saturday outlined a comprehensive roadmap to accelerate the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) infrastructure across urban India, with a strong focus on institutional reforms and coordinated implementation.

Addressing a high-level review meeting, the minister emphasized the need to institutionalize single-window approval systems, integrate PNG infrastructure into urban planning frameworks, and ensure last-mile connectivity. He described cities as key drivers of economic growth and called for mission-mode execution to fast-track PNG rollout.

Target of 50 Lakh PNG Connections Highlighted​

According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the government has set an ambitious target of providing 50 lakh new PNG connections. The meeting brought together multiple stakeholders to review progress and discuss strategies for scaling up the PNG network while ensuring uninterrupted essential services.

A presentation by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas detailed the current status of PNG expansion, highlighting its advantages over LPG. These include improved safety, consistent supply, cost efficiency, and environmental sustainability.

Key Challenges in PNG Rollout Identified​

Despite progress, several bottlenecks continue to affect the pace of implementation. Key challenges discussed during the meeting included delays in securing municipal permissions, issues related to Right of Way approvals, and high restoration charges. These factors have been identified as major hurdles in timely network expansion.

Ministers Call for Stronger Coordination and Energy Security​

Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri highlighted the shifting global energy landscape and stressed the importance of strengthening PNG infrastructure to enhance energy security and resilience. He urged states and Urban Local Bodies to actively promote PNG adoption, especially in areas where infrastructure is already in place.

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi focused on maintaining uninterrupted fuel supply and preventing market irregularities. He called for stricter monitoring mechanisms to curb misinformation and prevent black marketing. He also encouraged states to promote the transition from LPG to PNG, prioritizing public institutions such as schools and colleges.

States Share Best Practices to Accelerate Implementation​

During the roundtable discussions, participants highlighted several best practices to expedite PNG rollout. These included fast-tracking road-cutting permissions and introducing deemed approval mechanisms to reduce delays.

State representatives emphasized the importance of coordination among Urban Development Departments, municipal bodies, and Food and Civil Supplies Departments to ensure seamless execution.

Consensus on Phased Transition from LPG to PNG​

The meeting concluded with broad agreement on adopting a phased and structured transition from LPG to PNG in areas where infrastructure already exists. This transition will be supported by consumer awareness initiatives and safeguards to ensure there is no disruption in essential services.