The Centre on Monday notified the Liquefied Petroleum Gas (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Amendment Order, 2026, aimed at providing additional relaxation and convenience to domestic LPG consumers who shift to piped natural gas (PNG) connections. According to official sources, the amended order was notified on May 25, 2026, introducing greater flexibility for consumers who obtain PNG connections after already having LPG connections. LPG consumers who have PNG connections as well may apply for termination of the LPG connection within 30 days of obtaining a PNG connection. These consumers may obtain a transfer voucher for future restoration of the LPG connection in a non-PNG area, providing significant relief and flexibility to consumers who may subsequently shift to areas where PNG infrastructure may not be feasible. The amendment introduces a transfer voucher system that allows former LPG users to retain the option of restoring their connection should they move to a location where PNG infrastructure is not yet available, ensuring consumers are not permanently locked out of LPG services.
Under the revised provisions, LPG consumers who shift to PNG will now have two options - they can either apply for termination of their LPG connection within 30 days of receiving the PNG connection or choose to obtain a transfer voucher that will help them restore the LPG connection in the future if they move to an area where PNG services are unavailable. As per official sources, the transfer voucher system has been introduced, keeping in mind situations where consumers may relocate to non-PNG regions. The provision is particularly beneficial for transferable employees, migrant households, tenants, students and families shifting to non-PNG areas, as reported by official sources. The Central government stated that the amendment was necessary because many consumers face practical difficulties when relocating from urban areas with PNG facilities to towns or rural regions where PNG networks are unavailable. Officials believe the move will reduce procedural hassles and provide uninterrupted access to cooking fuel for households moving between different regions.
According to official data, about 7.99 lakh PNG connections have been gasified and infrastructure created for an additional 2.87 lakh connections, taking the total to 10.86 lakh connections since March this year. The ministry also reported that about 8.27 lakh customers have been registered for new connections, demonstrating strong demand for cleaner fuel options. This substantial infrastructure development demonstrates the government's commitment to expanding PNG availability across the country. The expansion is designed to provide consumers with alternative fuel options and reduce dependence on LPG for domestic cooking needs. The decision comes amid the Central government's broader push to expand clean cooking fuel access across the country through both LPG and PNG networks.
During the last four days, around 1.72 crore domestic LPG cylinders were delivered against bookings of around 1.66 crore cylinders. The public sector oil companies have also organised about 15,400 awareness camps for small 5 kg LPG cylinders and have sold more than 2.45 lakh such cylinders during these camps since April 3 this year. As reported by official sources, citizens are advised to avoid panic purchases of petrol, diesel and LPG as the government is making all efforts to ensure availability of these fuels. The government has also requested citizens to beware of rumours and rely on official sources for correct information.
The government has requested citizens to use digital booking platforms and avoid visiting distributors. Citizens are encouraged to use alternative fuels such as PNG and electric or induction cooktops. All citizens are requested to make necessary efforts to conserve energy in their daily use during the current situation, according to official sources. These measures are part of broader efforts to manage energy demand and ensure sustainable fuel usage across the country.
