Major changes to India's domestic gas supply regulations are set to take effect from July 1, impacting millions of LPG consumers nationwide. These new rules, primarily enforced by the Centre's LPG (Regulation of Supply and Distribution) Amendment Order, primarily affect households that also possess a Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connection and those who have not completed their electronic Know Your Customer (e-KYC) verification.
LPG-PNG Connection Rules Tighten
Under the updated regulations, consumers holding both an LPG connection from providers like HP, Indane, or Bharat Gas and an active PNG connection will no longer be permitted to maintain both. Effective July 1, these dual connections are subject to disconnection. The government had previously issued a directive in March, instructing LPG users in areas with established PNG infrastructure to transition to piped gas within three months. This grace period concludes at the end of June.
For those who voluntarily relinquish their LPG connection due to this rule, there's a provision: a coupon will be issued, allowing them to reactivate their LPG connection in the future if their circumstances change. This measure aims to provide flexibility while enforcing the policy of 'one household, one primary gas connection type' where PNG is available.
Mandatory e-KYC Verification Deadline Approaches
Separately, all LPG connection holders are now required to complete e-KYC verification. The deadline for this essential process is June 30. Failure to complete e-KYC by this date could result in the disconnection of the LPG connection, making it difficult or impossible to book subsequent cylinder refills. Consumers who have already completed their e-KYC verification are not affected by this particular deadline.
Anticipated Relief for LPG Booking Timelines
On a more positive note for consumers, there is growing anticipation of eased restrictions on domestic LPG cylinder bookings. The government has already rolled back curbs on commercial LPG supply, citing a de-escalation of tensions in West Asia. This move has fueled expectations that similar relief may be extended to domestic users.
Currently, a mandatory waiting period exists between LPG cylinder bookings—25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural areas. This restriction was initially introduced during periods of heightened geopolitical instability to prevent hoarding and ensure a stable supply. With the Strait of Hormuz reportedly returning to normal operations, industry observers suggest that these mandatory waiting periods could be shortened starting July 1, although formal confirmation from the government is still awaited.