New Delhi, Mar 25: The Centre has mandated that cooking gas LPG supply to households will be discontinued if consumers fail to switch to piped natural gas (PNG) in areas where such connectivity is available, as part of a major push to expand gas infrastructure and strengthen energy security.
The new order, issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas under the Essential Commodities Act, states that LPG supply “shall cease after three months” if a household does not opt for PNG despite availability. However, exemptions will be granted in cases where it is technically infeasible to provide a PNG connection, subject to a no-objection certificate.
The move comes amid global supply disruptions, including the ongoing West Asia conflict, which has impacted LPG availability from key sources.
The newly notified Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, aims to accelerate pipeline infrastructure, ease approvals, and promote a shift from LPG to PNG — a cleaner and more convenient fuel supplied directly through pipelines without the need for cylinder refills.
Commenting on the development, Neeraj Mittal said the reforms have turned a crisis into an opportunity by improving ease of doing business.
To ensure rapid rollout, authorities have been directed to grant permissions for pipeline laying within fixed timelines, failing which approvals will be deemed granted. Housing societies and entities controlling access must allow pipeline installation within three working days, while last-mile PNG connections are to be provided within 48 hours.
The order also bars authorities from imposing additional charges beyond prescribed limits and empowers designated officers with civil court-like authority to resolve disputes related to land access and right of way.
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board has been designated as the nodal agency to monitor implementation, including approvals, compliance, and dispute resolution.
Officials said the policy aims to free up LPG supplies in areas with PNG connectivity and divert them to regions lacking such infrastructure, while promoting fuel diversification and reducing dependence on a single energy source.
The government has also warned that LPG supply will be discontinued in housing complexes that deny access for pipeline installation, reinforcing its push for wider adoption of piped natural gas across the country.
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