Odisha Accelerates PNG Pipeline Expansion Across Cities

State Pushes for Citywide Gas Connectivity
The Odisha government is fast-tracking the expansion of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connectivity across urban areas, aiming to ensure seamless and affordable energy access for households. Urban Development Minister Krushna Chandra Mahapatra stated that necessary arrangements are being made to extend pipeline gas supply to all cities in the state.

Work has already been largely completed in major municipal corporations and key cities such as Angul and Dhenkanal. For the remaining towns, preparations are underway, and district collectors have been directed to provide full support. Multiple agencies have also been instructed to expedite the work.

Delays in the Past, Momentum Under Current Government
Although the project began in 2017, progress was slow due to lack of coordination during the previous administration. The minister emphasized that the current “double-engine” government has significantly accelerated the pace of implementation, with structured planning and regular reviews now in place.

Technology-Driven Implementation to Minimize Disruption
The government is adopting modern technology to lay pipelines with minimal road excavation, ensuring reduced inconvenience to the public. Authorities are targeting completion of key works before the monsoon season. Officials also assured that alternative arrangements would be made by companies in case of any disruptions in PNG supply.

Growing Demand and Rapid Adoption in Bhubaneswar and Cuttack
PNG adoption is steadily increasing, particularly in Bhubaneswar, where around 100 new connections are being provided daily. Areas such as Chandrasekharpur, Kalinga Vihar, Dumduma, and Mancheswar are witnessing higher demand due to completed pipeline infrastructure.

Currently, Bhubaneswar has around 19,000 PNG users, while Cuttack has approximately 9,000 consumers. According to GAIL’s commercial manager Soumya Ranjan Mohanty, both online and offline applications are rising steadily.

National Initiatives Boost PNG Expansion
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, initiatives like the National PNG Mission 2.0 and the Pradhan Mantri Urja Ganga Gas Pipeline Project are driving rapid expansion of natural gas networks across the country.

The Odisha government has also initiated the process of formulating a City Gas Distribution (CGD) policy to further streamline approvals and accelerate infrastructure growth.

Affordable, Safe, and Reliable Energy Alternative
PNG is emerging as a preferred alternative to LPG due to its lower cost, continuous supply, and enhanced safety features. Amid concerns over LPG shortages influenced by global factors, the shift toward PNG is gaining momentum in urban Odisha.

Simple Application Process for Consumers
The government has urged residents to apply for PNG connections through both online and offline modes. With a one-time fee of ₹4,500 and submission of identity proof, consumers can expect installation within 90 days.

Authorities have set ambitious targets, aiming to add 1.25 lakh new consumers in Bhubaneswar and 1 lakh in Cuttack in the coming years. Recent progress shows that around 1,479 households have been connected in just the past two to three months, with expansion ongoing in areas like Khandagiri, Eginiya, and Pokhariput.

Future Outlook
With strong policy backing, technological advancements, and rising consumer interest, Odisha is on track to achieve widespread PNG connectivity. The initiative is expected to significantly improve urban energy infrastructure while reducing dependence on conventional LPG systems.