Maharashtra Leads PNG Expansion Drive as Government Pushes Piped Gas Adoption
NEW DELHI: Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Delhi, and Haryana have recorded the highest number of new PNG (Piped Natural Gas) registrations and activations of previously dormant connections since March. This surge follows a government initiative to expand piped gas supply in kitchens nationwide, aimed at alleviating pressure on LPG cylinder supplies exacerbated by the West Asia crisis.
State-Wise Breakdown of PNG Activations and Registrations
Data reveals that of the more than 4.7 lakh dormant connections activated until April 16, Maharashtra accounted for over one-fourth, with 1.2 lakh activations. Uttar Pradesh followed closely with more than a fifth, totaling 1 lakh activations. In terms of new registrations, Maharashtra again led the way, representing over 22% of the 5.2 lakh new registrations, with 1.2 lakh. Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat followed with significant contributions of 1 lakh and 76,000 new registrations, respectively.
Regulatory Push and Infrastructure Expansion
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has directed gas companies to fast-track domestic piped gas connections in 110 geographical areas. This includes 25 areas in Uttar Pradesh and 12 in Maharashtra. The board has extended a national expansion drive, initially launched on January 1 this year, until June 30 to maintain momentum.
According to PNGRB data, as of January 31 this year, there were over 1.6 crore domestic PNG connections, of which a little over one crore were active. The number of commercial and industrial customers stood at 48,568 and 21,512, respectively, across 307 geographical areas.
Government Initiatives and Coordination Efforts
Gas companies are coordinating with district authorities in areas where the number of connections is less than 10,000 to identify ways to improve infrastructure and expedite approvals necessary for network expansion. The central government has offered all states and Union Territories an additional 10% allocation of commercial LPG, contingent on their support for a long-term transition from LPG to PNG.
Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Petroleum Ministry, stated that 22 states and UTs are receiving additional commercial LPG allocation linked to PNG expansion reforms. The Centre has streamlined and established a time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines. This framework addresses delays in approvals and access to land, enabling faster development of natural gas infrastructure, including in residential areas.
Broader Implications and Future Outlook
The push for PNG expansion is part of a broader strategy to enhance energy security and reduce dependency on LPG cylinders, particularly in light of geopolitical tensions affecting supply chains. By accelerating the adoption of piped gas, the government aims to provide a more stable and efficient energy solution for households and businesses alike.
This initiative not only supports immediate relief from LPG supply pressures but also aligns with long-term goals for sustainable energy infrastructure development across the country.
