Government Takes Major Step To Promote PNG Connections, Announces BIG Concessions

New Delhi: Providing an update on the tensions in West Asia, the government has made a major announcement. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary (Petroleum), stated that the Government of India is actively working on the expansion of PNG (Piped Natural Gas) and has taken several measures to promote PNG connections. In light of this, oil companies have even waived the security deposit required for PNG supply.

She further informed that an order has also been issued to waive the road restoration charges in Delhi. Consequently, pipelines can now be laid around the clock—24 hours a day. Additionally, another significant announcement was made: Sujata Sharma stated that the companies have announced a waiver of the security deposit for new PNG connections, along with the provision of free gas worth up to ₹500. This initiative is expected to lead to a rapid increase in the number of PNG connections.

The benefit of free gas worth up to ₹500 and the relief on security charges for new gas connections will be extended to customers who obtain a new connection by March 31.

Is there adequate supply of LPG?

Providing further details, she stated that there is no shortage in the supply of domestic LPG. Measures are also being taken to curb black marketing; as part of these efforts, 2,700 raids were conducted across several states on March 24, resulting in the seizure of 2,000 cylinders. She emphasized that there is no need to pay heed to rumors, as the supply of LPG remains adequate. Regarding petrol and diesel, she noted that refineries are operating at their full capacity. India currently possesses a total refining capacity of 260 million tonnes.

What about notification for PNG connections?

The Delhi government has granted permission for work related to PNG infrastructure to be carried out on a 24x7 basis. "We issued a notification yesterday regarding the expansion of PNG connections," she said. "The application fees and timelines have been streamlined." Providing further details during the media briefing, she revealed that over the past 25 days, 2.5 lakh new PNG connections have been issued. Yesterday, at least 92% of LPG refill bookings were made online. The volume of daily bookings continues to rise. 2.2 million tonnes of commercial LPG have been allocated to 26 states, and 30,000 5-kg LPG cylinders were distributed yesterday.

Has Donald Trump Called PM Modi?

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that our dialogue with global leaders remains ongoing. On March 24, PM Modi received a phone call from US President Donald Trump. Additionally, the PM also received a call from the President of Sri Lanka. Both leaders emphasized the need to keep shipping lanes secure. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister Jaishankar met with the Iranian Ambassador yesterday evening to discuss conflicts in West Asia.