New Delhi, May 25 (IANS) The Government on Monday said around 7.99 lakh piped natural gas (PNG) connections have been gasified since March 2026, while infrastructure has been created for an additional 2.87 lakh connections, taking the total number of PNG connections to 10.86 lakh amid efforts to strengthen cleaner fuel access across the country.

The update was shared during a media briefing held at the National Media Centre as the government continued monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia and its possible impact on fuel availability and energy security.

“Since March 2026, about 7.99 Lakh PNG connections have been gasified and infrastructure has been created for additional 2.87 Lakh connections, taking the total to 10.86 lakh connections,” the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas said.

“Further, about 8.27 Lakh customers have been registered for new connections,” the ministry added.

The government said domestic PNG consumers and CNG transport users are currently receiving 100 per cent gas supplies on priority basis.

Gas supply to industrial and commercial sectors, including through city gas distribution (CGD) networks, has also been enhanced up to 80 per cent.

To reduce dependence on commercial LPG, CGD entities have been advised to prioritise PNG connections for commercial establishments such as hotels, restaurants and canteens across all geographical areas.

The Centre has also asked states, Union Territories and central ministries to expedite approvals required for expansion of CGD infrastructure.

According to the government, 22 states and Union Territories are already receiving additional commercial LPG allocation linked to PNG expansion reforms.

The ministry said the government had earlier offered an additional 10 per cent allocation of commercial LPG to states willing to support the long-term transition from LPG to PNG.

In a major policy move, the government notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act on March 24, 2026.

The order aims to provide a streamlined and time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines across the country by addressing delays related to approvals and land access.

–IANS

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