Madhya Pradesh steps up PNG push amid low adoption, ramps up LPG crackdown

Bhopal, April 20 (IANS) Madhya Pradesh is accelerating its shift towards piped natural gas (PNG), with the state government stepping up efforts to boost connections even as large parts of the existing network remain under-utilised. 

State Food and Civil Supplies Minister Govind Singh Rajput on Monday said the focus is now on converting pipeline coverage into active users while continuing strict action against LPG black marketing.

Highlighting the ground situation, the Minister said PNG infrastructure has already been laid in several urban clusters across the state, but a significant number of households and establishments are yet to take connections.

Official assessments indicate that while city gas networks have expanded to multiple districts, actual domestic PNG connections remain far below targets, reflecting a gap between availability and adoption.

“Consumers should opt for PNG connections where pipelines are already available. It provides a continuous and safe supply and reduces dependence on LPG cylinders,” Rajput said.

He added that a targeted, time-bound campaign is being launched to address this gap. Camps will be organised and approvals fast-tracked over the next three months to connect households and commercial units that already have pipeline access.

The state is also expediting Right of Use (RoU) approvals to support faster network expansion by city gas distribution entities.

“Continuous action is being taken across the state to curb black marketing and ensure that essential commodities reach genuine consumers,” the Minister said, referring to enforcement under the Essential Commodities Act.

Detailing the crackdown, Rajput said inspections have been conducted at 2,938 locations, leading to the seizure of 4,547 LPG cylinders and the registration of 12 FIRs.

“We have also inspected 765 petrol pumps, and FIRs have been registered in cases where irregularities were found,” he said.

Reassuring citizens, he said fuel availability remains stable. “There are no disruptions in the supply of LPG, petrol, diesel, PNG or CNG. Adequate stocks are available, and all refineries are operating at full capacity,” Rajput said.

The Minister added that PNG connections are being prioritised for institutions, government establishments, and industrial units located near existing pipelines, while expansion into new areas is continuing simultaneously.

He said the push for PNG is part of a broader strategy to reduce pressure on LPG distribution and promote cleaner fuel usage.

“Fuel supply in the state is stable. People should not panic and should adopt cleaner and more efficient energy options,” he said.

Rajput also noted that alternative energy solutions such as biogas and solar cooking are being promoted, with directions issued to operationalise compressed biogas projects and maximise the use of existing plants across districts.