Energy crisis: Government pushes to connect Papua New Guinea, asks all ministries to assess needs

NEW DELHI: Amid tight supply of LPG, the Center has asked ministries and departments to assess the potential demand for piped natural gas (PNG) in canteens and food pantries of government departments and offices and push for its expansion.It also urged government agencies, housing estates and canteens to switch to Papua New Guinea, while City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies were also given extended support to expand their networks. The development push in Papua New Guinea also aims to reduce reliance on imported LPG in the long term. Domestic LPG supply continues to be restricted, with commercial users bearing the brunt.The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said on Sunday that LPG supply remains a concern amid the evolving situation in West Asia. To offset supply disruptions, domestic refineries have maximized LPG production while sourcing LPG from other regions including the United States, Russia and Japan.The ministry said CGD entities have been advised to prioritize the connectivity of commercial establishments such as restaurants, hotels and canteens to Papua New Guinea.“The Petroleum and Gas Regulatory Commission has directed CGD entities to shorten the time between submission of applications and the start of gas supply to households,” the ministry said. The Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization also directed its office to process CGD applications within 10 days.Gas distribution companies are offering incentives to encourage domestic and commercial LPG consumers to switch to Papua New Guinea, while urging states and federal territories to expedite the approvals needed for CGD network expansion.