The Central government has issued a new order to streamline the laying of pipelines for natural gas and petroleum products. The order, known as the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution (Through Laying, Building, Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities) Order, 2026, was recently published. This move aims to enhance energy security and reduce reliance on imported fuels amid concerns over supply disruptions.
The directive comes in response to worries about long-term fuel supply disruptions due to damage to liquefaction facilities in the Gulf region and the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz. To address persistent hurdles hindering pipeline infrastructure expansion, the order establishes a uniform framework. These obstacles include delays in approvals, denial of land access, high fees, and consumer resistance to switching from LPG to natural gas.
The order targets increasing natural gas supply to domestic consumers through pipelines, which would free up LPG for regions without pipeline connectivity. It will apply to public entities, housing societies, and authorized entities defined by the Petroleum Act, 1934. The aim is to expedite pipeline laying processes, resolve right-of-way delays, and tackle unreasonable charges imposed by local authorities.
Officials highlighted the need to correct the imbalanced fuel mix in areas where consumers still heavily rely on LPG despite natural gas availability. The new framework seeks to facilitate smoother infrastructure rollout and promote the use of piped natural gas where feasible. This initiative is crucial as disruptions in global energy markets persist, emphasizing the importance of timely infrastructure development.
