Guwahati, May 26, 2026 — In a significant push to expand clean energy infrastructure, the Assam government has introduced sweeping administrative reforms to accelerate the rollout of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) across the state.
Under the new directives, urban local bodies have been mandated to grant necessary clearances for City Gas Distribution (CGD) projects within just 24 hours. Similarly, if District Magistrates fail to issue digging permissions within the stipulated 24-hour window, CGD service providers can proceed with work immediately. These measures aim to eliminate bureaucratic delays that have historically slowed down pipeline and infrastructure projects.
Relaxed Norms to Boost Implementation
The state has also relaxed several operational guidelines to facilitate faster execution. CGD entities are now permitted to work round-the-clock, with flexible working seasons. Road restoration and permission charges have been waived, allowing companies to restore roads at their own cost after submitting undertakings.
A dedicated state-level task force has been constituted to monitor progress, with companies required to submit weekly reports. Strict timelines have been set for switching households and establishments to PNG in areas where infrastructure is ready — mandating completion within three months.
Progress and Targets
Assam Gas Company Limited (AGCL), which is spearheading PNG expansion in Upper Assam, is targeting 100 new domestic connections per day. The company has already achieved an average of around 84 connections daily and has successfully completed nearly 70,000 PNG connections across six districts in the region.
In Guwahati, Purba Bharati Gas Pvt. Ltd. has completed approximately 1,090 connections so far and is aiming to reach 6,000 by June 30, 2026, despite minor delays linked to pipeline commissioning.
PNG offers significant cost benefits to consumers, priced at roughly half the cost of unsubsidized LPG cylinders (around ₹1,100). This makes it an attractive and reliable alternative for households.
Strategic Importance
The aggressive push comes at a time when global fuel supply uncertainties, particularly due to tensions in West Asia, have highlighted the need to reduce dependence on imported LPG. The initiative aligns with the Central Government’s broader strategy to expand natural gas usage in households, transportation, and industries, promoting cleaner energy and energy security.
While initial connection costs remain a concern for some households, the government has introduced instalment options, especially for Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, to improve accessibility.
With these reforms, Assam is positioning itself as a leader in the country’s transition towards a gas-based economy, promising lower fuel costs, reduced pollution, and greater energy reliability for its residents in the coming years.
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