New Delhi: The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has extended the National PNG Drive until June 30, 2026, aiming to maintain momentum in the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) amid global energy supply challenges. The move is part of a coordinated “whole-of-Government” approach to strengthen the PNG network and mitigate the impact of LPG supply disruptions on domestic and commercial consumers.
6.5 Lakh Connection Infrastructure Added
Launched in January 2026, the National PNG Drive seeks to accelerate city gas distribution (CGD) infrastructure rollout with time-bound targets for PNG-D, PNG-C, and CNG station commissioning across all authorized geographical areas.
As of March 31, 2026, CGD entities had developed additional DPNG infrastructure for 6.5 lakh connections, with gas supply already started for 5.29 lakh domestic consumers and 2,457 commercial consumers.
Furthermore, 11 new geographical areas (GAs) have been connected to the natural gas pipeline network, bringing the total to 250 GAs. On average, over 10,000 new PNG connections are being provided daily, and CGD entities have been instructed to accelerate this pace to meet growing demand.
Read also: GAIL to Benefit from 12% Interim Transmission Tariff Hike by PNGRB, Effective January 2026
Compliance and Reforms Boost PNG Expansion
PNGRB highlighted the importance of compliance under new regulatory measures. The government, through the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, PNGRB, and other departments, has implemented reforms such as:
- Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Amendment Order, March 14, 2026
- Natural Gas & Petroleum Products Distribution Gazette Notification, March 24, 2026
These measures link commercial LPG allocation with CGD expansion in states, accelerating infrastructure growth and improving last-mile connectivity. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs is also collaborating with PNGRB, state governments, and municipal authorities to better align urban planning with energy infrastructure development.
Consumer-Centric Steps for Faster PNG Connections
PNGRB has directed CGD entities to prioritize connections for households and institutional users, including:
- Canteens, hostels, and mess facilities
- Hotels and restaurants
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
The board has mandated real-time reporting of DPNG connections, CNG station commissioning, and commercial connections through a dedicated portal. Additionally, CGD entities must:
- Publish area-wise and municipality-wise PNG expansion plans online
- Offer online registration for prospective consumers
- Provide tentative connection timelines and explanations
- Display pending registrations to increase transparency
These steps aim to make the transition from LPG to PNG faster, measurable, and consumer-friendly.
Real-Time Monitoring and Infrastructure Acceleration
The PNGRB emphasized that the rollout is being closely monitored to ensure PNG gas supply reaches over 10,000 new households and 50 commercial establishments daily. Temporary suspension of imbalance charges has also been allowed to support consumers and improve network efficiency.
About PNGRB
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) is the apex regulator for natural gas and petroleum product distribution in India. Established under the PNGRB Act, 2006, it oversees city gas distribution networks, pipeline operations, and compliance with government directives, ensuring safe, efficient, and consumer-friendly gas services nationwide.
