Udupi MP Kota Shrinivas Poojary has directed authorities to expedite the ongoing pipeline works for supplying PNG (Piped Natural Gas) connections to households in the city and ensure connectivity to the public at the earliest.
Review meeting on PNG and CNG distribution
Chairing a progress review meeting on PNG supply to households and CNG distribution for vehicles at the deputy commissioner’s office on Wednesday, the MP expressed concern over the slow progress of the pipeline project. He noted that the project to provide domestic gas connections has been underway for the past 10 years but remains incomplete. He directed officials and company representatives to complete the pipeline works by June and ensure that it is operational.
Awareness campaigns for online applications
Poojary also directed company representatives to create awareness among the public about applying online for PNG connections through banners, pamphlets, and social media campaigns. During the meeting, it was informed that around 35,000 households within urban local body limits in the district are expected to receive the supply, while pipeline connectivity has presently been made ready for about 1,500 houses.
CNG supply issues and solutions
The MP expressed concern over autorickshaw drivers waiting for hours in queues to fill CNG. He said the issue could be resolved by deploying four additional jumbo vehicles for transporting CNG to the district and instructed gas companies to take necessary action. Representatives from GAIL informed the meeting that the pipeline installation work up to the ATGL terminal at Panambur would be completed by the end of this month. After this, an application would be submitted to PESO for approval.
New CNG stations and additional supply
MP Poojary said the district currently has 11 CNG distribution units and proposals have been sent for sanctioning new CNG stations at Muniyalu and Yermal. CNG distributors informed the meeting that due to the increasing number of functions and events, demand for CNG has risen significantly and additional supply vehicles are needed beyond the existing 17 trucks. Responding to this, the MP directed Adani and GAIL companies to work in coordination, provide 10 additional CNG loads to the district, and strictly follow FIFO norms while loading fuel.
Shortage of technicians
Deputy commissioner Swaroopa TK pointed out that there is a shortage of technicians to resolve issues and instructed company representatives to appoint additional CNG operators.
