Govt mandates LPG supply cut if households refuse PNG switch where available

In a major policy shift aimed at strengthening energy security and accelerating gas infrastructure the Centre has mandated that LPG supply to households may be discontinued if consumers do not switch to piped natural gas PNG where such connectivity is available reported news agency PTIThe move comes amid global supply disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia conflict which has impacted LPG availability and prompted the government to push for alternative fuel adoptionLPG Supply to Stop After Three Months of NonComplianceAccording to the new order issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas LPG supply to a household will cease after three months if the consumer fails to opt for PNG despite availability reported PTIHowever the provision includes an exception LPG supply will continue in cases where PNG connectivity is ldquotechnically infeasiblerdquo subject to a noobjection certificate issued by the authorised entityPush for PNG to Reduce Dependence on LPGThe directive is part of the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order 2026 which aims to promote a shift from LPG to PNG mdash a fuel that is continuously supplied through pipelines and eliminates the need for refill bookings reported PTIThe government is encouraging households and commercial users to adopt PNG as a more reliable and efficient alternative particularly during times of global supply uncertainty reported PTIMeasure Aimed at Optimising LPG DistributionOfficials said the move is intended to free up LPG supplies in areas where PNG networks already exist and redirect those supplies to regions that lack pipeline infrastructure reported PTIThe policy also aligns with broader efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on a single fuel especially as disruptions in global trade routes like the Strait of Hormuz continue to affect importsFaster Approvals to Boost Pipeline ExpansionThe new order introduces several measures to speed up the rollout of PNG infrastructure Authorities have been directed to grant permissions and rightofway approvals within fixed timelines failing which approvals will be deemed granted reported PTIIn residential areas housing authorities must provide access for pipeline installation within three working days while lastmile PNG connectivity is to be ensured within 48 hours wherever feasibleStrict Compliance and Monitoring FrameworkThe Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board PNGRB has been designated as the nodal agency to monitor implementation including tracking approvals compliance and progress of pipeline projects reported PTIEntities authorised to lay pipelines must begin work within four months of receiving approval or face penalties including potential loss of exclusivityLegal Backing Under Essential Commodities ActThe order has been issued under the Essential Commodities Act giving it strong legal backing It also empowers designated officers with authority similar to civil courts to resolve disputes related to land access and pipeline installationGovt Calls Move lsquoOpportunity Amid CrisisrsquoCommenting on the development Oil Secretary Neeraj Mittal described the initiative as turning a crisis into an opportunity through reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business and strengthening energy resilience reported PTIWith inputs from PTI