Chandigarh Residents Voice Growing Anxiety Over Delayed PNG Connections
Concerns are escalating among residents across multiple sectors in Chandigarh regarding the future of their liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections as the city administration actively promotes a shift to piped natural gas (PNG). The transition, intended to modernize the city's energy infrastructure, has been marred by significant implementation delays, leaving many households in a state of uncertainty.
Years of Waiting Without Resolution
A primary issue is the prolonged waiting period for PNG connections, even in sectors officially designated as having "full availability of PNG." Residents argue this classification does not match the ground reality, where functional PNG supply remains absent. M S Rawat, a resident of Sector 40-C, shared his frustration, stating he applied and paid for a PNG connection back in 2018. "It has been so many years, but I haven't yet received the connection. If that is the case, my money should be returned," he said. Similar complaints have emerged from various sectors, with applicants reporting waits exceeding two years without any tangible progress.
Residents' Welfare Associations Highlight Systemic Issues
Residents' welfare associations (RWAs) emphasize that the problem is not a lack of demand for PNG but rather delays in execution and insufficient clarity from authorities. Manjit Singh Sarang, president of the Sector 10 RWA, noted residents are eager to switch due to PNG's convenience, safety, and environmental benefits. "PNG is the need of the hour. We have already written to the municipal commissioner, seeking installation of pipelines," he explained.
However, infrastructure concerns are also prevalent. In Sector 11, RWA president I P Singh criticized inefficient pipeline laying methods. "Connections are being drawn from the front of houses, even though kitchens are usually at the back. Pipes are taken up to the roof and then brought down again, which is redundant. If planned through the back alley, it would save material, effort, and money," he said, echoing worries from multiple sectors.
Lack of Awareness and Communication Gaps
Compounding the issue is a widespread lack of awareness about the PNG application process and associated costs. Deepak Sharma, president of the Sector 32-C RWA, pointed out that many residents are willing to adopt PNG but are unclear on how to proceed. "People don't know where to apply or what the fees are," he stated. In Sector 36, residents have reported that helpline numbers are often unresponsive or unreachable, further hindering communication.
Official Reassurances Amid Ongoing Uncertainty
In response to the growing unease, officials from the food and supplies department have attempted to reassure residents. They announced that households which have applied for PNG but not received connections by the end of June will be issued a non-feasibility certificate. This document is intended to ensure their LPG connections are not discontinued prematurely. Officials also encouraged residents to seek clarification or apply for connections via the toll-free helpline number, 1800-233-55666.
Despite these measures, uncertainty persists. With deadlines approaching and implementation lagging, residents' primary concern remains clear: they should not be forced to relinquish their LPG connections until PNG becomes a reliable reality at their doorstep.
Current PNG Infrastructure Status in Chandigarh
The administration has provided an update on PNG availability and progress:
- Sectors with PNG availability: 32–38, 40–44, 46–51, Sector 11, and MHC Manimajra
- Connections installed: 22,500 domestic and 185 commercial
- Lines being laid in: Sectors 7, 10, and 15
- Target for domestic supply: June 30, 2026
- Government houses connected: 1,500
As the city navigates this critical energy transition, the gap between policy intentions and on-ground execution continues to fuel resident anxiety, highlighting the need for more efficient planning and transparent communication.
