Government Initiatives to Boost PNG and CNG Infrastructure in Assam

The Assam government is taking significant steps to enhance PNG and CNG infrastructure in response to the global fuel crisis. With new regulations mandating swift approvals for city gas distribution and a target of 100 new connections daily, the initiative aims to streamline operations and improve accessibility. Urban bodies are encouraged to waive fees and facilitate restoration efforts, while a state-level task force monitors progress. Despite challenges, including initial connection costs for consumers, the government remains committed to expanding natural gas access across the region. This article delves into the details of these initiatives and their expected impact on the community.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 25, 2026, 09:22 IST

Accelerating PNG and CNG Expansion

Guwahati, May 25: In response to the global fuel crisis stemming from the conflict in West Asia, the government has established ambitious targets for distribution companies, eased regulations, and implemented a stringent monitoring system to expedite the growth of PNG and CNG infrastructure throughout the State.

Urban authorities are now required to grant approvals for all new city gas distribution (CGD) applications within a 24-hour timeframe. Should the District Magistrate not provide digging permissions within this period, service providers are permitted to begin excavation without delay, as per the latest notification.

CGD companies are now authorized to operate around the clock, with relaxed seasonal working restrictions.

Additionally, urban bodies have been instructed to eliminate road restoration and permission fees associated with CGD expansion, allowing these entities to restore public assets at their own expense with a formal commitment.

A state-level task force is actively monitoring progress, and weekly updates have been mandated from the involved companies.

“Our goal is to establish 100 new connections daily, and we have successfully achieved approximately 84 thus far. We anticipate an increase in numbers post-Eid,” stated Gokul Chandra Swargiary, Managing Director of Assam Gas Company Limited, noting that the supply of natural gas remains sufficient.

To date, AGCL has successfully completed around 70,000 connections across six districts in Upper Assam.

“In comparison to LPG, which costs about Rs 1,100 (without subsidy), the price of PNG will be reduced to half,” Swargiary explained.

However, he acknowledged that the initial connection fee has deterred some potential customers. For Below Poverty Line (BPL) consumers, there is an option to pay in installments.

In Guwahati, Purba Bharati Gas Pvt. Ltd. (PBGPL) has managed to complete 1,090 connections to date.

“Although around 6,000 connections were planned, some have been damaged due to delays in the commissioning of the natural gas pipeline from Barauni to Guwahati, necessitating repairs. We aim to achieve the 6,000 connection target in Guwahati by June 30,” an official from the company reported.

During a recent meeting with District Commissioners and CGD companies, Chief Secretary Ravi Kota stressed the importance of adhering to timelines, including a mandatory transition to PNG in connected regions within three months, with a focus on industrial supply.

Monitoring committees have been established statewide to enhance inter-agency collaboration, boost outreach efforts, and ensure effective communication with consumers.