Maharashtra Govt Fast-Tracks City Gas Distribution Network To Tackle Energy Crisis Amid Global Tensions

Maharashtra Govt Fast-Tracks City Gas Distribution Network To Tackle Energy Crisis Amid Global Tensions

The Maharashtra government has eased norms to speed up city gas network expansion, citing global energy concerns. Approvals for PNG pipelines will be deemed cleared, and new applications processed within 24 hours. Charges have been waived and round-the-clock work allowed. Domestic users will be prioritised, with connections expected within three months.

Kalpesh MhamunkarUpdated: Wednesday, April 01, 2026, 10:33 PM IST
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Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal said all pending permissions for laying PNG gas pipelines will now be deemed approved, while new applications must be cleared within 24 hours by the gas distributors. | File Pic

Mumbai: To tackle the emerging energy crisis triggered by global tensions between the United States and Iran, the Maharashtra government has issued sweeping orders to fast-track the expansion of the City Gas Distribution (CGD) network across the state.

Pending Permissions Deemed Approved

Announcing the decision, Food and Civil Supplies Minister Chhagan Bhujbal said all pending permissions for laying PNG gas pipelines will now be deemed approved, while new applications must be cleared within 24 hours by the gas distributors. The government has also waived road restoration charges levied by local civic authorities and allowed gas companies to work round-the-clock.

In a significant relaxation, CGD firms will no longer require no-objection certificates from fire or traffic departments. PNG has been accorded the status of an essential service, similar to water and electricity.

PNG Declared Essential Service

The government has appointed the Director of Civil Supplies as the nodal officer to ensure coordination among departments. The orders will remain in force until June 30, 2026.

Residents and hotel operators in areas with existing pipelines can apply through ration shops and are expected to receive connections within three months. While domestic supply will be prioritised, commercial users such as hotels, schools and hospitals will receive gas at regulated rates.

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