Chandigarh's 90-Day PNG Mandate: Switch or Lose LPG Supply
Residential societies and households across Chandigarh are now under a strict three-month deadline to transition to piped natural gas (PNG) infrastructure. Failure to comply could result in the discontinuation of bottled liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinder deliveries, as per a sweeping new energy mandate enforced by the Chandigarh administration.
Federal Decree Accelerates Clean Fuel Adoption
The directive is based on the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, a federal decree notified under the Essential Commodities Act. This order is specifically designed to fast-track the phase-out of LPG cylinders in favor of piped gas systems, aiming to enhance urban energy efficiency and safety.
Under this framework, the Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and its authorized partners have been granted extensive powers to lay pipelines across both public and private land. To circumvent bureaucratic delays, the order introduces a "deemed approval" mechanism: if relevant authorities do not process infrastructure requests within 10 to 60 days, permission is automatically granted.
Aggressive Timelines and Enforcement Measures
The mandate imposes aggressive timelines to minimize logistical hurdles. Residential societies are required to grant access for pipeline installation within three days, while household connection approvals must be finalized within 48 hours. The most critical provision allows for the discontinuation of LPG supplies in areas where PNG infrastructure becomes fully operational.
Residents who do not opt for a piped connection within 90 days of its availability may face a cutoff of their cylinder deliveries, provided the connection is technically feasible for their dwelling. To ensure transparency, the order prohibits local authorities from imposing arbitrary charges on energy providers, and in cases where private landowners refuse pipeline passage, the District Magistrate is empowered to make a binding decision after a summary review.
Regulatory Oversight and Consumer Benefits
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) will serve as the national watchdog for this rollout, monitoring compliance and safety standards. While the order pressures consumers to switch, it also holds providers accountable; authorized entities like IOCL face penalties or license withdrawal if they fail to meet construction and safety milestones.
Administration officials highlight that the transition offers significant consumer benefits, noting that piped gas is generally lower-risk, more cost-effective, and provides a more reliable, uninterrupted fuel supply compared to traditional LPG cylinders. This move aligns with broader national efforts to promote cleaner energy sources and reduce dependency on bottled gas, potentially setting a precedent for other Indian cities to follow in the coming years.
