The Government of Odisha has notified the Odisha City Gas Distribution (CGD) Policy, 2026 with the objective of accelerating the development and expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) networks and City Gas Distribution infrastructure across the State.
The policy has been issued by the Housing & Urban Development Department and comes into force from the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.
The policy aims to promote natural gas as a cleaner and environment-friendly fuel for domestic, commercial, industrial and transport sectors, in alignment with the vision of “Viksit Odisha” and India’s clean energy transition goals. It seeks to facilitate faster implementation of PNG connections, CNG stations and related infrastructure through a streamlined, time-bound approval mechanism.
As per the policy, Odisha has already authorised five CGD entities to cover all 30 districts of the State. Around 9 lakh PNG domestic connections and 271 CNG stations are planned under the committed work programme, with an estimated investment potential of nearly ₹5,100 crore.
The Housing & Urban Development Department has been designated as the nodal department for the implementation of the policy. A State Level Apex Committee under the Chairpersonship of the Chief Secretary and District Level Monitoring Committees headed by Collectors will facilitate faster clearances, coordination among departments and monitoring of CGD projects.
The policy also provides for single-window clearance mechanisms, standardised permission charges, GIS-based underground utility mapping, priority allotment of land for CNG stations and City Gate Stations, and inclusion of PNG pipeline provisions in building plans and urban master plans.
To encourage the rapid expansion of CGD infrastructure, the State Government has waived permission and supervision charges for pipeline laying till March 31, 2027. The policy further emphasises safety standards, emergency response mechanisms, uninterrupted supply of PNG/CNG as essential services, and promotion of Compressed Biogas (CBG) initiatives in association with local bodies.
The policy is expected to strengthen Odisha’s clean energy ecosystem, improve urban infrastructure, reduce pollution and create significant employment and investment opportunities across the State.
