India is rapidly expanding its piped natural gas (PNG) network, with over 3.42 lakh new connections added since March, as the government responds to supply disruptions in liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) triggered by geopolitical tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz.
According to official data, more than 3.42 lakh LPG connections have been converted to PNG, while an additional 3.7 lakh consumers have registered for new connections, reflecting a sharp acceleration in the adoption of piped gas across the country.
The push comes amid disruptions in LPG supplies due to the West Asia conflict, which has impacted shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route through which India sources a significant share of its cooking gas imports. India depends on imports for around 60% of its LPG consumption, with nearly 90% routed via Hormuz, making the supply chain particularly vulnerable.
In response, the government has actively encouraged households and commercial users to shift to PNG wherever infrastructure is available. City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies such as Indraprastha Gas Limited, Mahanagar Gas Limited, GAIL Gas, and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited have introduced incentives and fast-track connection drives to facilitate the transition.
The expansion of PNG is also being supported through policy interventions. The government has extended national drives to accelerate pipeline rollout, streamlined approvals, and directed agencies to expedite last-mile connectivity. This includes measures to ensure quicker installation of pipelines and faster onboarding of new consumers.
The shift is not only aimed at addressing immediate supply concerns but also aligns with a broader strategy to reduce import dependence, improve energy efficiency, and lower subsidy burdens. PNG is considered a more reliable and convenient alternative, as it eliminates the need for cylinder refills and offers continuous fuel supply through pipelines.
While LPG supplies continue to be managed through increased domestic production and alternative sourcing, the ongoing expansion of the piped gas network is expected to play a key role in strengthening India’s long-term energy security and transitioning towards cleaner fuel systems.
