Ranchi: GAIL (India) Limited and the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) have intensified efforts to accelerate the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure in Jharkhand.
The push came during the CGD Jharkhand Infrastructure Review Meeting hosted by GAIL in Ranchi and chaired by Anjani Kumar Tiwari. The meeting was attended by R. K. Das, all City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities operating in the state, LPG marketing companies, and Prashant Kumar Singh.
Focus on Faster Domestic PNG Expansion
The high-level review focused on:
- Accelerating Domestic PNG (DPNG) connections
- Strengthening City Gas Distribution infrastructure
- Increasing adoption of cleaner fuels
- Reviewing project implementation timelines
CGD operators presented updates on ongoing infrastructure development, PNG connectivity and future rollout plans aligned with the Government of India’s clean energy vision.
Read Also: CONCOR Signs MoU with PSA Mumbai to Strengthen Rail-Based EXIM and Domestic Cargo Movement
During the meeting, Anjani Kumar Tiwari urged operators to increase capital expenditure (CAPEX) and exceed their authorised targets to speed up PNG penetration across the state.
Collaboration with LPG Companies to Promote PNG
Stakeholders also discussed awareness campaigns in partnership with LPG marketing companies to encourage households to shift to PNG in residential areas where pipeline infrastructure has already been commissioned.
The initiative is expected to help consumers transition more smoothly to cleaner and more convenient cooking fuel.
160th Commercial PNG Connection Inaugurated in Ranchi
As part of PNG Drive 2.0, Anjani Kumar Tiwari inaugurated the 160th commercial PNG connection at a food court restaurant in Hatia, Ranchi.
The milestone reflects steady progress in expanding PNG usage among commercial establishments such as restaurants, hotels and small businesses.
Chief Secretary Meeting Focuses on Policy Support
On the sidelines of the review, Tiwari met Avinash Kumar to discuss policy measures aimed at accelerating clean fuel adoption.
Key issues discussed included:
- Expansion of PNG and CNG networks
- Faster approvals for pipeline infrastructure
- Reduction of VAT on PNG and CNG to match neighbouring states
- Promotion of CNG-powered vehicles
These measures are expected to improve affordability and speed up implementation.
Visit to GAIL’s Compressed Bio-Gas Plant
Tiwari also visited GAIL’s Compressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plant in Ranchi and praised the company’s efforts in advancing the Waste to Energy initiative.
The facility supports sustainable fuel production and contributes to Jharkhand’s growing clean-energy ecosystem.
Jharkhand’s Clean Energy Push Gains Momentum
The review meeting highlighted a coordinated effort involving regulators, the state government and industry stakeholders to expand access to cleaner fuels.
Officials believe stronger policy support, higher investment and public awareness will enable Jharkhand to make significant progress toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy future.
