Centre's Bold Move: Government Mandates PNG Switch in Pipeline Areas

Policy Push for PNG Over LPG

With the crisis showing no signs of abating, the PNG is being touted by the government as the preferred energy option not only for the households but also for the commercial users as the uninterrupted supply of gas through the pipelines makes the cylinder refilling a thing of the past.

The new policy has been communicated through the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution (Through Laying Building Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities) Order 2026 issued by the ministry of petroleum and natural gas. The households in localities which have PNG access will be required to switch over, as per the condition of the Order.

Key Deadlines for Pipeline Expansion

The directive sets forth deadlines related to the activities, such as 10 days for steel pipe or PE pipes, and up to 60 days for steel pipelines larger than 20 inches in diameter and more than 10 km in length.
Furthermore, in public areas that are not residential, the gazette provides for the possibility that if the concerned entity (that can be central govt, state govt or urban authorities) does not reject or approve the permission for laying of pipelines within stipulated timelines, the application shall be deemed as approved.

Redirecting LPG to Remote Areas

The order was issued in light of the fact that pipeline infrastructure has been greatly accelerated, approval processes have been streamlined, and the country has been encouraged to shift from LPG to PNG, in turn making the country more energy secure. The measure also seeks to release the distribution of LPG by redirecting of supply from those areas where pipeline access is available to supply those areas where pipeline access is not available, on the other hand, it supports fuel diversification amidst the global upheavals that include the damage of liquefaction facilities in the Gulf and restrictions around the Strait of Hormuz.