Centre Pushes PNG as LPG Shortage Looms Amid Hormuz Disruption

With LPG supplies under strain due to disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, the Centre is promoting PNG connections, adding 2.7 lakh new users in March to ease pressure.

New Delhi | 1 April, 2026: Facing concerns over a potential shortage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) amid disruptions in global energy supply routes, the Centre has accelerated the rollout of piped natural gas (PNG) connections as an alternative for domestic consumers.

Officials indicated that the move follows rising uncertainty in fuel supplies due to tensions impacting the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy transit route. With shipping disruptions affecting the availability of LPG imports, the government is focusing on expanding PNG infrastructure to ensure uninterrupted access to cooking fuel.Data shows that approximately 2.7 lakh new PNG connections were added across the country in March alone, reflecting a rapid push to transition households toward piped gas systems. Authorities believe that increasing PNG penetration will reduce dependence on LPG cylinders, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas.

PNG is supplied directly to households through underground pipelines, eliminating the need for cylinder refills and reducing logistical challenges. Officials noted that this system offers greater supply stability, especially during periods of global disruptions.

The government’s strategy is also aligned with long-term energy security goals, as natural gas is considered a relatively cleaner and more efficient fuel compared to conventional LPG. Expansion of city gas distribution networks has been a key priority in recent years, with multiple urban centres being connected to pipeline infrastructure.

Industry experts pointed out that while PNG expansion can ease pressure on LPG supplies, the transition may take time due to infrastructure requirements and regional disparities in pipeline connectivity. Rural and remote areas are likely to remain dependent on LPG in the near term.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant portion of global oil and gas shipments pass, has been impacted by ongoing geopolitical tensions, raising concerns over supply continuity and price volatility. This has prompted countries like India to explore alternative distribution mechanisms and diversify energy sources.

Officials emphasised that the push for PNG is not only a short-term response to supply constraints but also part of a broader plan to strengthen the country’s energy resilience and reduce vulnerability to global disruptions.

As global energy markets remain volatile, the government is expected to continue balancing immediate supply concerns with long-term infrastructure expansion to ensure stable fuel access for consumers.

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