Gaya Administration Intensifies PNG Expansion Amid LPG Crisis
The district administration in Gaya has significantly ramped up efforts to extend piped natural gas (PNG) connections to both residential and commercial properties across Gaya and Bodh Gaya. This strategic move comes in response to a severe shortage of LPG cylinders and rampant black marketing activities that have disrupted the local energy supply chain.
Review Meeting Highlights Urgent Need for Action
District Magistrate Shashank Shubhankar conducted a comprehensive review of the PNG project's progress during a meeting held at the collectorate on Monday. He emphasized that expanding PNG infrastructure in Gaya is crucial to diminishing dependency on LPG, thereby ensuring a more stable and reliable energy supply for the community.
Addressing Consumer Grievances: The DM highlighted the seriousness of the current situation, noting that numerous complaints have been lodged at the district control room and on social media platforms. These complaints allege that delivery messages, including OTPs, are being sent to customers without the actual delivery of LPG cylinders. In response, the DM issued strict directives to officials to take immediate and stringent action against errant gas vendors and to seek explanations from the concerned distributors involved in these malpractices.
Current LPG Supply and Demand Imbalance
Officials at the meeting revealed alarming statistics regarding the LPG supply chain. Currently, approximately 13,000 LPG cylinders are being supplied daily, which falls short of the normal demand of 14,000 cylinders. This deficit has been exacerbated by panic booking from consumers, leading to a substantial backlog of nearly 60,000 pending refills, further straining the system.
PNG Project Targets and Progress
PNG project officials outlined ambitious targets for the initiative. The project aims to provide connections to 10,092 households in urban Gaya within the next year. As of now, 1,920 households are already receiving PNG supply, with an additional 401 households expected to be connected within the next 15 days. By June 15, the network is projected to cover 1,552 households in key areas such as Ashok Vihar, Lakhibagh, Magadh Medical, Bhusunda, and Janakpur.
Notable Adoptions: The Bihar Institute of Public Administration and Rural Development (BIPARD) campus and several major hotels in Bodh Gaya have already transitioned to PNG, setting a precedent for other establishments.
Encouraging Commercial Transition to PNG
During the meeting, the DM urged all hotels in Gaya and Bodh Gaya to actively apply for PNG connections. He stated, "Commercial establishments will be supplied gas only after applying for PNG connections. The administration aims to provide PNG connections to all hotels in Bodh Gaya within the next two months." This policy is designed to accelerate the shift away from LPG and mitigate supply issues in the hospitality sector.
Infrastructure Development and Safety Measures
The district supply officer provided updates on the ongoing infrastructure development. Indian Oil Gas Private Limited has commenced laying pipelines in 12 prominent areas of the city. The underground pipeline network is being constructed using advanced technology with rigorous safety standards. This includes regular monitoring and maintenance protocols to minimize risks and ensure a secure supply system for all users.
This comprehensive approach by the Gaya administration underscores a proactive response to the energy crisis, focusing on long-term solutions through PNG expansion while addressing immediate concerns related to LPG shortages and unethical practices.
