By In a major push to secure India’s energy supply, the government has issued a new order to speed up gas pipeline infrastructure across the country following disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz that have affected fuel imports. The move comes as concerns grow over shortages of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other energy supplies due to the ongoing West Asia conflict, prompting authorities to act quickly to strengthen domestic distribution networks.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas on March 24 notified the Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, creating a time-bound and streamlined framework for laying and expanding gas pipelines. Officials say the order is designed to remove long-standing delays in approvals, land access, and regulatory clearances that have slowed infrastructure development in the past.
According to the government, the new framework will allow faster construction of natural gas pipelines, including in residential and urban areas, while ensuring transparency and investor confidence. The order, published in the Gazette of India and brought into immediate effect, aims to create a predictable system for companies involved in pipeline construction and gas distribution, making it easier to expand networks across states and cities.
A key focus of the reform is to accelerate the rollout of piped natural gas (PNG) and City Gas Distribution (CGD) networks, improving last-mile connectivity for households, industries, and transport systems. By expanding pipeline infrastructure, the government hopes to reduce dependence on imported LPG and promote cleaner fuels for cooking and industrial use. Officials noted that nearly 90% of India’s LPG imports pass through the Strait of Hormuz, making the country vulnerable to geopolitical disruptions.
The order also standardises procedures and timelines for building and operating pipelines, reducing administrative hurdles and improving ease of doing business for energy companies. Industry experts believe this could encourage more private and public investment in gas infrastructure and help India move toward a gas-based economy.
Government sources said the decision reflects a broader strategy to build a resilient and diversified energy system in response to global uncertainties. With energy demand rising steadily and international supply routes facing risks, strengthening domestic infrastructure has become a priority.
By focusing on faster pipeline expansion and cleaner fuel access, the government aims to ensure stable energy availability for households and industries while preparing the country for future supply shocks in an increasingly volatile global energy environment.
