Maharashtra's PNG Drive Gains Momentum with Strong Industrial Response in Pune
Officials from the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) have reported a robust response to camps organized across industrial areas in the Pune district to expand the piped natural gas (PNG) network. These initiatives, aimed at encouraging industries to transition from liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to PNG, have garnered significant interest from industry members, reflecting a growing shift towards cleaner and more reliable energy sources.
Successful Camps in Bhosari and Ranjangaon
In collaboration with Maharashtra Natural Gas Limited (MNGL), MIDC conducted a two-day camp in Chinchwad on April 1 and 2, targeting units in the Bhosari MIDC area. Sanjay Kutwad, executive engineer at MIDC, stated that over 50 applications for new PNG connections were received during this event. "The process to provide connections to these industrial units will now be initiated," he confirmed. Bhosari MIDC, home to over 4,000 industrial units, already has nearly 80 units connected to the PNG network, with Kutwad noting that MNGL's existing pipeline infrastructure and support from industry associations are key drivers. He estimated that an additional 100 to 150 units are likely to opt for PNG connections in the near future, though not all units require gas.
A similar camp held at Ranjangaon MIDC on Thursday saw around 20 applications for new connections. Kutwad highlighted that Torrent Gas supplies gas in this belt, where 55 units are already connected to the PNG network. These efforts are part of a broader directive from Industries Minister Uday Samant, who recently convened a meeting with district officials and industry representatives to promote PNG adoption and ensure timely processing of new connections.
Expansion Across Other Industrial Areas
MIDC officials revealed that additional camps were held in the Kurkumbh and Baramati MIDC areas on Thursday, resulting in 19 applications. The push to shift industries from LPG to PNG is partly motivated by concerns over LPG supply disruptions due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia, emphasizing the need for more stable energy alternatives.
Looking ahead, another camp is scheduled for Talegaon MIDC on April 6, where both MNGL and Torrent Gas have supply networks. Kutwad urged industry members to participate actively, adding that MIDC is fast-tracking permissions for pipeline laying and connections. "Approval was recently granted for laying nearly 12 kilometers of gas pipeline in the Phase I area of Talegaon MIDC," he said, underscoring the commitment to infrastructure development.
Policy Support and Expedited Processes
Officials also pointed to recent policy measures by the central government aimed at expanding PNG networks and reducing dependence on LPG. Kalidas Bhandekar, chief engineer of the MIDC Pune division, described the response from industrialists as encouraging. "It has been decided that the process for new connections will be expedited and formalities prioritized. Permissions for laying pipelines are deemed approved within 24 hours of application, following which further processes are initiated," he explained. This streamlined approach is expected to accelerate the adoption of PNG across Maharashtra's industrial landscape, contributing to energy security and environmental sustainability.
