Sat Mar 28 14:04:01 UTC 2026: ### Maharashtra Seeks Central Assistance to Expand PNG Network

The Story:
Maharashtra’s Minister for Food and Civil Supplies, Chhagan Bhujbal, advocated for central government support to expand the Piped Natural Gas (PNG) network across the state. During a meeting in Delhi with Union Minister for Urban Development and Housing Manoharlal Khattar and Petroleum Minister Hardeep Puri, Bhujbal emphasized the need for financial assistance, technological infrastructure, and streamlined permissions to ensure the rapid adoption of PNG in residential and commercial establishments. He also highlighted the state government’s commitment to providing LPG quotas to domestic users amidst the West Asia conflict.

Key Points:

  • Chhagan Bhujbal urged the central government to provide financial assistance and technological infrastructure to expand the PNG network in Maharashtra.
  • The meeting, held in Delhi, included Union Ministers Manoharlal Khattar and Hardeep Puri.
  • Bhujbal requested that the central government make PNG mandatory in all new housing projects and launch special campaigns to promote PNG connections in existing housing societies and commercial establishments.
  • The state government has taken measures to strengthen the City Gas Distribution network, including expediting permissions and processes.
  • Amid the West Asia conflict, Maharashtra is committed to providing 100% quota of LPG to domestic residential users. Commercial establishments quota of LPG has been raised from 20 to 40.

Key Takeaways:

  • Maharashtra is actively seeking central government support to transition towards cleaner fuel sources like PNG.
  • Streamlining the approval process is crucial for the timely expansion of the PNG network.
  • The state government is balancing the need for PNG expansion with the current LPG requirements, especially considering geopolitical factors.
  • The push for PNG aligns with broader environmental goals and aims to reduce fuel costs.

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