Patna Accelerates Transition to Piped Natural Gas Amid LPG Supply Disruptions
In response to mounting LPG shortages and consumer panic fueled by volatility in global energy markets, largely attributed to the ongoing West Asia conflict, Patna is intensifying its shift towards Piped Natural Gas (PNG). This move aims to ensure a safer and uninterrupted supply of cooking fuel for residents, as traditional LPG cylinders face supply chain challenges.
GAIL's Expansion Drive and Network Coverage
The Gas Authority of India Ltd (GAIL) has already provided PNG connections to more than 30,800 households in Patna. Officials have announced ambitious plans to extend the network to an additional 70,000 homes in the coming months, significantly boosting the city's infrastructure for cleaner energy.
According to GAIL representatives, the PNG network has expanded across high-density areas, stretching from Danapur to Gandhi Maidan along Bailey Road. Key localities such as Boring Road and Anisabad have also been integrated into this system. The current focus is on government residential zones, including Gardanibagh, R Block, and regions along the bypass, to maximize accessibility.
Cost, Safety, and Operational Benefits of PNG
AK Sinha, General Manager and District In-Charge of GAIL, highlighted the advantages of PNG over LPG. He stated that the initial cost for a PNG connection is Rs 500, with billing based on actual consumption. "Once formalities are completed, setting up the pipeline and making it operational typically takes around three days," Sinha explained.
He emphasized that PNG is approximately 20% cheaper than LPG and offers enhanced safety features. "Being lighter than air, PNG disperses quickly in case of a leak, unlike LPG cylinders, which can accumulate and pose significant hazards," Sinha noted, underscoring the reduced risk of accidents.
Resident Experiences and Growing Demand
Residents who have adopted PNG report high satisfaction with the system's convenience and reliability. Gitu Sinha, a user for the past three months, expressed relief at eliminating monthly cylinder refills. "Handling cylinders every few weeks is tiring. With PNG, the supply is continuous and hassle-free," she said.
Mukul Verma, a resident of Jagdeo Path and a PNG consumer for five years, echoed similar sentiments. "For a family of three or four, the monthly bill rarely exceeds Rs 800, which is cheaper than LPG. The gas pressure is regulated, and safety concerns are minimal," he added.
Demand for PNG is steadily increasing, with officials reporting 22 new domestic applications received in Patna on a single Sunday. However, expansion efforts face challenges in certain areas due to ongoing metro rail and other infrastructure projects that restrict pipeline installation work.
Government Initiatives and Transition Policies
Patna District Magistrate Thiyagarajan S M, during a recent meeting, announced that GAIL is organizing special camps to facilitate Domestic Piped Natural Gas (DPNG) connections. He urged residents to switch to this cleaner fuel, noting that applications can be easily completed through online and digital platforms for added convenience.
Authorities have also appealed to PNG users to surrender their LPG connections. They clarified that households using PNG will neither be issued LPG refills nor permitted to retain cylinders, as the city moves towards a broader transition to piped gas, aligning with safety and efficiency goals.
This strategic shift not only addresses immediate fuel shortages but also promotes a sustainable and secure energy future for Patna, leveraging PNG's economic and environmental benefits.
