Piped Natural Gas (PNG) has now been classified as an essential service, on par with water and electricity. Domestic consumers will be given priority, while hotels, schools, hospitals, community kitchens, and hostels will receive 50 per cent of supply at commercial rates.
In a major policy decision, the Maharashtra government has eliminated the requirement for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for gas pipeline projects. Under the new directive, all pending approvals will be treated as “deemed approved,” while fresh applications will receive clearance within 24 hours.
This move comes in response to disruptions in LPG supply caused by ongoing conflict in Gulf countries. The government has ordered the rapid expansion of the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network on a war footing to ensure uninterrupted energy access.
To expedite infrastructure development, road restoration charges have been waived, and companies have been granted permission to carry out construction work round the clock. Additionally, clearances from the fire department and traffic police will no longer be required, as regulatory norms and conditions have been relaxed.
Piped Natural Gas (PNG) has now been classified as an essential service, on par with water and electricity. Domestic consumers will be given priority, while hotels, schools, hospitals, community kitchens, and hostels will receive 50 per cent of supply at commercial rates.
Amid escalating unrest in the Middle East, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint, have triggered fresh concerns over an energy crisis. The narrow passage, through which nearly a fifth of the world’s oil supply transits, has seen heightened tensions as Iran targets vessels, leading to delays and blockages of shipments carrying crude oil and LPG.
Several countries heavily dependent on these supplies are already feeling the strain, with fears of rising fuel prices and supply shortages looming large. However, India has so far managed to shield itself from the worst of the disruption. Following a round of diplomatic engagements with Iran, New Delhi has secured assurances for the safe passage of its vessels.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Indian-flagged ships continue to transit the Strait without interruption, ensuring steady energy inflows.
https://www.indiatvnews.com/maharashtra/maharashtra-fast-tracks-gas-pipeline-expansion-24-hour-approval-window-launched-amid-gulf-tensions-2026-04-01-1035926