More than 3.5 lakh domestic and commercial piped natural gas (PNG) connections for cooking were issued by city gas distribution entities in the first three weeks of March this year. At the same time, domestic LPG cylinder deliveries are normal, and panic bookings have significantly decreased, as per a government statement. LPG supply is under monitoring due to the current geopolitical situation, with no dry-outs reported at distributorships.
The Government of India has restored 20% of commercial LPG supply to consumers and plans to allocate an additional 10% to States and UTs based on ease of doing business reforms for PNG expansion. Domestic LPG production from refineries has increased compared to pre-crisis levels, with all refineries operating at high capacity and maintaining adequate crude inventories. There have been no reports of fuel dry-outs at retail outlets by Oil Marketing Companies, ensuring regular supplies of petrol and diesel.
Priority sectors like domestic PNG and CNG transport receive 100% supply, while industrial and commercial consumers are regulated at around 80%. City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities are focusing on providing PNG connections to commercial establishments, offering incentives from companies like IGL, MGL, GAIL Gas, and BPCL. Commercial LPG consumers in major cities and urban areas are encouraged to switch to PNG for better efficiency.
States and UTs are urged to expedite approval of applications needed for CGD network expansion. The Petroleum Ministry is reviewing proposals from Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh governments regarding CGD and PNG transition reforms. Central Government Ministries have been asked to speed up permissions related to CGD infrastructure. Ministries are also tasked with assessing potential demand for PNG connections in their establishments and designating nodal officers for coordination.
