Govt eases norms to streamline laying gas pipelines, boost natural gas use
This story was originally published at 11:05 IST on 25 March 2026
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NEW DELHI – The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution (Through Laying, Building, Operation and Expansion of Pipelines and Other Facilities) Order, 2026, which streamlines the framework for laying and expanding pipelines, positioning natural gas as a key transition fuel. The order is aimed at addressing delays in approvals and access to land, which it expects would enable faster development of natural gas infrastructure, the ministry said in a release late Tuesday.
The government hopes these measures will enhance energy security through diversification of the gas distribution network and improve the ease of doing business through faster approvals. Additionally, it enables accelerated roll-out of pipeline networks across urban and semi-urban areas, the ministry said.
"The Order aims to facilitate the expansion of piped natural gas (PNG) networks, improve last-mile connectivity, and promote a shift towards cleaner fuels for cooking, transport and industrial purposes, thereby strengthening energy security and supporting India's transition to a gas-based economy," the ministry said.
The order introduces standardised processes and timelines aimed at reducing ambiguity and administrative discretion. It also eliminates the arbitrary levies and charges while defining compensation and restoration mechanisms to avoid disputes with local authorities. The order also facilitates a gradual transition from liquefied petroleum gas to piped natural gas in areas where pipeline infrastructure already exists. End
Reported by Anand JC
Edited by Avishek Dutta
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