Have PNG access but not switched? Govt will stop LPG refills

NEW DELHI: In a bid to wean away consumers from LPG, govt has decided to stop after three months the supply of cylinders to households which have access to piped natural gas but have shied away from taking a connection. India imports about 60% of its LPG requirement, with nearly 90% of it coming through the Strait of Hormuz. Though about half of the requirement of LNG - converted into PNG and CNG and also used by industries and power plants - is also imported, officials said its supplies remain comfortable. A senior official said even rented houses where tenants currently use LPG will have to switch. LPG supply will not be stopped if the authorised entity issues an NOC stating providing a PNG connection is technically not feasible. Officials said city gas distribution (CGD) companies will send a communication to LPG consumers who can switch to PNG. Timelines prescribed for grant of right of way or permissions to CGD firmsEyeing quick expansion of the piped gas network, govt has made it mandatory for authorities to grant right of way or permissions to CGD companies within prescribed timelines, failing which approvals will be deemed granted. The order, issued under Essential Commodities Act, focuses on reforms to fast-track approvals for laying pipeline infrastructure and ensuring time-bound permissions.