Karnataka Launches Initiative to Withdraw LPG Cylinders for PNG-Connected Households
In a move aimed at optimizing gas distribution, the state of Karnataka has commenced the process of withdrawing LPG cylinder deliveries to households that have access to Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections. This initiative is designed to streamline the LPG supply chain, particularly amid ongoing challenges in the sector.
Uninterrupted PNG Supply Amid LPG Crisis
According to PNG consumers, the supply of piped natural gas has remained stable and uninterrupted, even as the LPG crisis persists. This reliability has prompted authorities to reassess the necessity of dual gas sources for eligible households.
Implementation Begins in Bengaluru
Mehul J Patel, president of the Karnataka State LPG distributors' association, confirmed that the withdrawal process has been initiated in Bengaluru. "As part of the drive, currently LPG connections are frozen in the backend. House owners will be advised to surrender the cylinder," he explained to TOI. However, Patel noted that distributors have not yet received formal instructions regarding the collection of LPG cylinders from PNG-connected homes.
Revised Rules Allow Single Cylinder Retention
Under the revised regulations, customers with PNG connections are permitted to retain a single LPG cylinder, providing a backup option while primarily relying on the piped supply. This adjustment aims to balance convenience with efficiency in gas usage.
Mysuru's PNG Connectivity Statistics
In Mysuru city, the PNG network is extensive, with detailed breakdowns across various localities:
- Total PNG Connections: 3,273 houses
- Ramakrishan Nagar: Approximately 1,281 homes
- Vijayanagara I Stage: Connections on 2nd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 8th, and 10th Main roads
- Vijayanagara II Stage: Coverage includes 20th A, B, C, D, E Main roads, 21st A, B, C Main roads, 1st Cross Road, 22nd Cross Road, and 7th to 12th Main Roads, totaling 461 houses
- Other Areas: Kuvempu Nagar (273 connections), Hootagalli (1,082 connections), Bogadi (16 connections), and Hootagalli Industrial Area (160 connections)
Hotel Industry Embraces PNG for Stability
C Narayana Gowda, president of the hotel owners' association, highlighted that many hotels in Mysuru have switched to PNG connections, abandoning LPG due to supply issues. "PNG supply is very stable. It ensured that hotels with PNG connections would function as usual. However, it is the hotels which are depending upon the LPG which are facing problems," he stated, underscoring the operational benefits of piped gas for commercial establishments.
This statewide effort reflects a strategic shift towards more reliable and efficient energy distribution, with potential implications for both residential and commercial gas consumers across Karnataka.
