NEW DELHI: Amid an ongoing LPG supply crunch, the Centre has asked all ministries to assess potential demand for piped natural gas (PNG) across canteens and pantries in government offices and accelerate its expansion.
The government has also urged establishments, residential colonies and canteens to shift to PNG, while extending support to city gas distribution (CGD) companies to expand their networks, aiming to reduce long-term dependence on imported LPG.
The petroleum and natural gas ministry said LPG supply remains a concern due to the evolving situation in West Asia, with domestic refineries maximising output and alternative sourcing from countries such as the US, Russia and Japan.
Commercial users continue to face supply pressure, while domestic LPG supplies are being ring-fenced.
CGD entities have been advised to prioritise PNG connections for commercial establishments like restaurants, hotels and canteens, and to shorten timelines between application and gas supply.
The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation has also directed its offices to clear CGD applications within 10 days, while states and Union Territories have been urged to expedite approvals for network expansion. (Agencies)
