In response to disruptions in global petroleum supply chains caused by geopolitical tensions, the Odisha government is fast-tracking the development of piped natural gas (PNG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) infrastructure to provide a stable alternative to LPG.
A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary Anu Garg was held today at Lok Seva Bhawan to review progress and expedite the rollout. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary (Industries) Hemant Sharma, Additional Chief Secretary (Housing & Urban Development). Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary (Food Supplies & Consumer Welfare) Sanjay Kumar Singh, and representatives from major gas companies such as GAIL, BPCL, and Adani Total Gas.
The discussions focused on resolving bottlenecks in gas infrastructure development and promoting a shift from LPG to PNG for domestic consumers and to CNG/PNG for commercial establishments like hospitals, hotels, and restaurants.
The primary objective is to encourage households and businesses to adopt piped natural gas (PNG) and CNG, which offer greater price stability as they are sourced domestically, reducing vulnerability to international market fluctuations.
Following the meeting, the state administration has directed that all necessary administrative approvals and infrastructure work for PNG and CNG be completed on a “war footing.” Key measures include:
- All pipeline laying applications pending with municipal corporations, public works departments, and water resources departments will be cleared within 24 hours.
- Urban local bodies have been instructed to waive road restoration charges and permission fees for CGD companies.
- CGD entities have been granted permission to work round-the-clock (24 hours) to expedite projects.
- A state-level nodal officer will be appointed to ensure better coordination among the Industries, Housing & Urban Development, and Food Supplies departments.
- Gas companies like GAIL, BPCL, and Adani Total Gas are being encouraged to offer incentives for domestic consumers to switch to PNG connections.
The initiative aligns with national priorities under the Essential Commodities Act, where natural gas usage is being promoted to ease pressure on LPG supplies amid import disruptions. By June 30, 2026, the state aims to significantly advance infrastructure development to ensure reliable, long-term energy access.
The Odisha government remains committed to protecting its citizens from global energy crises and building a self-reliant fuel infrastructure for sustainable energy security.
