Now the “City Beautiful” is accelerating its transition to a pipeline-based energy economy. On Monday, March 23, 2026, Chandigarh Chief Secretary H. Rajesh Prasad chaired a high-level review to address the LPG supply strain triggered by recent geopolitical developments in West Asia. Therefore, the administration has introduced a “mission-mode” approach to expand the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network. Currently, all commercial and industrial LPG consumers are required to apply for Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections to remain eligible for fuel quotas. Thus, Chandigarh aims to insulate its residents and businesses from the volatile international energy market.
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At a Glance:
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The Mandate: Commercial and industrial users must apply for PNG to access the 50% LPG quota.
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New Policy: “Dig and Restore” mechanism approved for 24/7 pipeline laying.
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Oversight: A new state-cum-district level empowered committee will handle CGD approvals.
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Monitoring: OMCs to coordinate with Food & Supplies Dept to prevent LPG diversion.
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Registration: Residents can contact 180023355666 for immediate PNG installation.
In This Article:
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The Commercial Shift: Why PNG is Now Mandatory
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Accelerating Infrastructure: The “Dig and Restore” Strategy
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Tightening the Reins: Monitoring LPG Quotas and Diversion
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Benefits of the Switch: Safety, Cost, and Environment
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Commercial Shift: Why PNG is Now Mandatory
Now the Chandigarh administration is making it clear that the era of heavy reliance on commercial LPG cylinders is ending. Because the national commercial LPG quota remains capped at 50%, the city is prioritizing those who show a commitment to cleaner alternatives.
First, all industrial and commercial entities must submit applications for a PNG connection. Next, UT officials confirmed that these consumers must be “ready to switch” before they can be considered for any allocation from the restricted LPG pool. Thus, the move is designed to free up traditional cylinder stocks for domestic households and the transport sector.
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Accelerating Infrastructure: The “Dig and Restore” Strategy
Now the physical expansion of the gas network is being fast-tracked through major policy changes. To ensure that pipeline laying does not get bogged down in bureaucratic delays, the Chief Secretary has approved a “Dig and Restore” mechanism. Therefore, CGD entities no longer have to wait for separate departmental clearances for every minor excavation.
First, this policy allows for round-the-clock (24/7) operational permissions to lay pipes across the city. Next, a dedicated empowered committee will be constituted to address any local grievances or technical bottlenecks. Thus, the administration expects a significant surge in PNG availability in Sectors that were previously underserved.
Tightening the Reins: Monitoring LPG Quotas and Diversion
Now that the supply situation is sensitive, the administration is taking a hard line against the black market. Therefore, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have been given strict instructions to monitor every delivery.
First, OMCs must work in “lockstep” with the Department of Food and Supplies and the Deputy Commissioner’s office. Next, they are tasked with enforcing the new LPG quotas and identifying any illegal diversion of domestic cylinders to commercial use. Thus, by sealing these gaps, Chandigarh ensures that the limited fuel arriving in the city reaches the “priority sectors” and genuine domestic kitchens.
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Benefits of the Switch: Safety, Cost, and Environment
Now the administration is not just using mandates; it is also highlighting the tangible benefits of making the switch. Residents are being encouraged to move to PNG not just out of necessity, but for the long-term advantages it offers.
First, PNG provides a continuous, uninterrupted supply, removing the need for 35-day booking cycles. Next, the system is significantly safer than storing pressurized cylinders indoors and offers better cost efficiency over time. Thus, the transition serves the city’s broader environmental goal of moving towards a “net-zero” carbon footprint. Currently, citizens can visit the Indian Oil Adani Gas office in Sector 22, Panchkula, to start their transition process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is PNG mandatory for residential users in Chandigarh? No. It is currently mandatory for commercial and industrial users to apply, though residential users are strongly encouraged to switch.
What is the “Dig and Restore” mechanism? It is a new approval process that allows gas companies to dig and lay pipes 24/7, provided they restore the area immediately after, speeding up infrastructure rollout.
How do I apply for a PNG connection in Chandigarh? You can call the customer care number 180023355666 or visit the Indian Oil Adani Gas Pvt Ltd office in Sector 22, Panchkula.
Why is there a review of the LPG supply? The review was triggered by geopolitical tensions in West Asia (Strait of Hormuz), which have strained India’s energy imports.
Will I lose my LPG connection if I get PNG? Usually, you must surrender your LPG connection or keep it as a backup (without subsidy) once the PNG line is activated, depending on current ministry guidelines.
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