The government has accelerated the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections across the country, with more than 4.24 lakh connections already gasified since March 2026 and over 4.66 lakh customers registering for new connections during the same period.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, in its latest update on Sunday, 12 April, highlighted the progress in PNG expansion as part of ongoing measures being undertaken in view of the evolving situation in West Asia.
“Since March 2026, more than 4.24 lakh PNG connections have been gasified. Further, more than 4.66 lakh customers have registered for new connections,” the ministry stated.
The expansion drive is being supported by measures aimed at promoting PNG connections for domestic and commercial consumers.
City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities have been advised to prioritise PNG connections for establishments such as hotels, restaurants and canteens.
To facilitate faster expansion, States and Union Territories have been requested to expedite approvals required for the development of CGD networks.
Incentives are also being offered by CGD companies for domestic and commercial PNG connections.
The government has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act, which provides a streamlined and time-bound framework for laying and expanding pipelines across the country.
According to the ministry, the order is expected to accelerate PNG network growth, enhance last-mile connectivity and support the expansion of natural gas infrastructure.
Further, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has extended the National PNG Drive 2.0 till 30 June 2026 to sustain momentum in PNG expansion.
The ministry also noted that more than 30,000 PNG consumers have surrendered their LPG connections, indicating a shift towards piped gas usage.
The PNG expansion is part of broader efforts to ensure energy availability and strengthen fuel supply systems amid the current global situation.
