March 5th marks a significant milestone in India’s endeavor towards a gas-based economy, as highlighted by Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Housing & Urban Affairs, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri. Speaking at an event, Minister Puri reiterated the government’s vision to enhance the share of natural gas in the primary energy basket to 15% by 2030. He emphasized the importance of developing the National Gas Grid (NGG) and an extensive City Gas Distribution (CGD) network to establish a robust gas-based economy.
In a virtual ceremony attended by dignitaries including Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas & Labour and Employment, Shri Rameshwar Teli, and senior officials from the oil and gas sector, Minister Puri dedicated 201 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) stations and India’s maiden Small Scale LNG Unit of GAIL to the nation. These initiatives are a collaborative effort by 15 City Gas Distribution (CGD) entities of GAIL group, spanning 52 Geographical Areas (Gas) across 17 states.
The inauguration of these CNG stations, including those set up by GAIL Gas Limited, Indraprastha Gas Limited, and other entities, signifies a significant step towards promoting cleaner and sustainable fuel accessibility. Minister Puri commended GAIL’s innovation in establishing India’s first small-scale LNG unit at Vijaipur, Madhya Pradesh, with a project cost of 150 crores. This technology holds promise in linking isolated gas sources with consumers, facilitating resource monetization.
Looking ahead, Minister Puri highlighted the Minimum Work Plan submitted by CGD entities, projecting around 17,500 CNG stations and approximately 120 million PNG (Domestic) connections by 2030. He emphasized that this expansion will not only promote sustainable energy practices but also stimulate ancillary industries, aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The inauguration of CNG stations and the Small Scale LNG unit underscores the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions. These initiatives represent a significant stride towards realizing India’s aspirations for a cleaner, greener, and self-reliant energy future.
