Residents in Pune have criticized a new central government directive requiring households with piped natural gas (PNG) connections to surrender their LPG cylinders. The order comes amid the ongoing LPG supply disruption across India linked to global fuel supply tensions in West Asia.
Many citizens say the timing of the directive is problematic, as people are already dealing with uncertainty about cooking gas availability.
What the Government Order Says
The Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas amended the LPG supply rules, stating that households with PNG connections:
- Cannot retain a domestic LPG cylinder
- Cannot get LPG refills from oil companies
- Cannot apply for new LPG connections in the future
Consumers who currently have both systems must surrender their LPG connection immediately and rely only on piped gas.
The government says the move is meant to avoid duplication of cooking gas supply and ensure LPG cylinders are available for households that do not have access to PNG networks.
Why the Rule Was Introduced Now
The policy is linked to the current LPG supply crisis caused by geopolitical tensions affecting global energy routes and fuel shipments.
Because of these disruptions, the government is trying to reduce demand for LPG cylinders and prioritize supply for households that depend solely on LPG for cooking.
India imports a large portion of its cooking gas, and disruptions in global supply chains have forced authorities to manage distribution more carefully.
Why Pune Residents Are Opposing the Move
Many Pune residents argue that keeping LPG as a backup is important, even if they already have PNG connections. Key concerns include:
- Fear of PNG service interruptions during maintenance or emergencies
- Dependence on LPG for outdoor cooking or emergencies
- Lack of clarity about how quickly the rule will be implemented
Some residents said the directive could create confusion during an already tense fuel situation.
PNG Supply in Pune Remains Stable
Officials from Maharashtra Natural Gas Limited (MNGL), which supplies piped gas in Pune, have assured residents that PNG supply remains stable and continues to serve more than 8 lakh households in the region.
Authorities say households with PNG should not face cooking fuel shortages if they rely entirely on the piped system.
What Happens Next
The government’s directive has triggered debate across several cities, and residents are urging authorities to delay or reconsider the policy until the LPG crisis stabilizes.
For now, oil companies and city gas distributors are expected to verify customer data and enforce the rule gradually, ensuring LPG cylinders are reserved for households that do not have PNG access.
Summary
The Centre has directed households with piped natural gas (PNG) connections to surrender their LPG cylinders and stop taking refills. The move aims to prevent duplicate gas supply and conserve LPG during the current fuel disruption. However, Pune residents have criticized the decision, saying LPG is needed as a backup in case of PNG outages.
