(a) whether the Government proposes to set up online gas pipeline connections in the B grade cities of the country especially in the metro cities of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan and Maharashtra;
(b) if so, the details thereof along with the estimated cost of the said project along with the time by which it is likely to be completed; and
(c) if not, the reasons therefor?
MINISTER OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS
(SHRI DHARMENDRA PRADHAN)
(a) to (c) Petroleum & Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) is the authority to grant authorization to the entities for the development of City Gas Distribution (CGD) network in Geographical Areas (GAs) as per PNGRB Act, 2006. PNGRB identifies GAs for authorizing the development of CGD network in synchronization with the development of natural gas pipeline connectivity and natural gas availability. Providing the Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections is part of development of CGD Network. PNGRB has authorized 228 GAs covering 406 districts spread over 27 States and UTs covering approximately 70 percent of India’s population and 53 percent of its geographical area including states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan and Maharashtra up to 10th CGD Bidding Round. Authorized entities are required to execute the development of CGD networks as per the work plan submitted by them to PNGRB. Details of the GAs authorized till 10th CGD bidding round in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Rajasthan and Maharashtra are at Annexure.