Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Amid the LPG supply crunch, the Centre has asked all ministries to assess the potential demand of piped natural gas (PNG) across canteens and pantries at govt departments and offices, and push for its expansion.It has also urged govt establishments, residential colonies and canteens to switch to PNG, while city gas distribution (CGD) companies are being extended support to expand their networks. The push for PNG is also aimed at reducing dependence on imported LPG in the long term. Domestic LPG supplies continue to be ring-fenced, with commercial users bearing the brunt of pressures.The ministry of petroleum and natural gas said on Sunday that LPG supply remained a concern amid the evolving situation in West Asia. To offset disruptions, domestic refineries have maximised LPG output, while supplies are being sourced from alternative geographies such as the US, Russia and Japan.The ministry said CGD entities have been advised to prioritise PNG connections for commercial establishments, such as restaurants, hotels and canteens.“CGD entities have been directed by the petroleum and natural gas regulatory board to shorten the timeline between the submission of applications and the commencement of gas supply to households,” the ministry said. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation has also instructed its offices to dispose of CGD applications within 10 days.Gas distribution companies are offering incentives to encourage both domestic and commercial LPG consumers to switch to PNG, while states and UTs have been urged to expedite approvals required for CGD network expansion.
