The government announced that LPG supply will stop in areas where Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections are available, mandating households to switch within 90 days.
The Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas issued the directive under the Essential Commodities Act through the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026.
Households notified of PNG availability must apply for a connection within three months. Failure to comply will result in automatic termination of LPG cylinder refills. Authorities clarified that exemptions will apply where PNG connections are technically infeasible, with No-Objection Certificates allowing continued LPG use until issues are resolved.
The move comes amid global supply strains caused by disruptions in West Asia, including shipping delays in the Strait of Hormuz and damage to liquefaction facilities. By mandating PNG adoption in urban centres, the government aims to free LPG stocks for rural and underserved regions. Officials also seek to eliminate duplication of cylinder delivery and pipeline networks in the same neighbourhoods.
Public authorities must now grant Right of Way permissions for pipeline laying within strict timelines of 10 to 60 days. If they fail to respond, approvals will be deemed granted. Resident Welfare Associations and housing societies must allow last-mile connectivity within three working days. If they block installation, the entire complex risks losing LPG supply once formal notice is served.
