Madhya Pradesh: Emphasis on LPG Alternatives in Bhopal Amidst Crisis; New Targets Set for PNG Connections
Bhopal: Amidst shortages, the Madhya Pradesh government is now placing increased emphasis on alternatives to LPG. Consequently, new targets for PNG connections are being assigned across the state.
On Saturday, Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) Rashmi Arun Shami held a meeting via video conferencing with City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities, oil companies, and District Supply Officers. During the meeting, she directed all CGD entities to set specific targets for the PNG connections to be provided over the next three months. Furthermore, she mandated the continuous monitoring of the applications received daily by CGD entities, as well as the corresponding PNG connections issued against them.
ACS Shami instructed 'Think Gas'—the nodal CGD entity—to prepare and make available a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) regarding the benefits of PNG and the procedure for obtaining a PNG connection. CGD entities were also directed to upload their pipeline network details onto the Government of India's 'GatiShakti' portal. Oil companies have been tasked with informing consumers residing in areas where pipelines have already been laid to apply for a PNG connection immediately.
Following this notification, if a consumer fails to apply for a PNG connection, their existing LPG connection may be discontinued within the next three months.
Emphasis on PNG Connection Expansion
Instructions have been issued to the 10 entities currently operating in the state's City Gas Distribution sector to increase the availability of PNG connections. To facilitate this, control rooms have been established where the demands and grievances of domestic and commercial consumers are being resolved expeditiously.
Directives issued to provide PNG connections
In areas where PNG pipelines have already been laid, directives have been issued to provide PNG connections to residential complexes, schools, hostels, colleges, community kitchens, and Anganwadi centers within five days of receiving an application. To monitor the progress of PNG connections, officials—including the Collector, Additional District Magistrate (ADM), District Supply Officer, and representatives from the respective CGD entities—will conduct reviews at the district level. Strict Action Against Black Marketing
ACS Shami directed that steps be taken to ensure consumers receive an SMS notification regarding the expected delivery timeline after booking an LPG cylinder. Continuous action is being taken across the state under the Essential Commodities Act to curb the black marketing of LPG. To date, inspections have been conducted at 2,593 locations, and FIRs have been registered in 9 cases. Additionally, 583 petrol pumps were inspected, resulting in the registration of FIRs in 2 cases. District Supply Officers and officials from oil companies have been instructed to conduct regular inspections of petrol pumps.