In Bihar, the process of getting a domestic piped natural gas (PNG) connection has been made easy, transparent, and user-friendly to promote the use of clean, safe, and environmentally friendly energy.
Now, ordinary citizens can apply online for a domestic PNG connection from the comfort of their homes, which will free them from dependence on traditional gas cylinders and ensure a continuous supply of gas.
In Patna district of the state, GAIL, in Banka district, HPCL, in Begusarai district, Think Gas, in Gaya and Nalanda districts, IOGPL, in Darbhanga, Gopalganj, Madhubani, West Champaran, East Champaran, Sheohar, Sitamarhi, Siwan, and Supaul districts, BPCL, and in other districts, IOCL City Gas Distribution (CGD) company is providing domestic PNG connections.
Interested consumers can register online for free by visiting the official website of the City Gas Distribution company of their district. After applying, the consumer will have to upload necessary documents such as identity proof and address proof. After successful verification of documents, a unique Business Partner (BP) number will be issued to the consumer, which will be necessary for future services and billing process.
For a domestic PNG connection, consumers will have to pay Rs 4500 as a security deposit at once. Additionally, an alternative facility is also available under which a connection can be obtained by paying Rs 500 and a daily rent of Re 1, which can be later converted into a full Rs 4500 scheme.
In the next step of the process, the feasibility of the connection is assessed through a technical survey. After approval, the external network is expanded through the MDPE pipeline, and the gas supply is delivered to the consumer's home through GI/copper piping. Along with this, the installation of gas meters, regulators, and piping, leakage tests, and necessary safety checks are completed.
At the time of connection activation, the consumer's existing LPG stove is made PNG-compatible, and after checking all safety standards, the gas supply is started.
The entire process of domestic PNG connection is carried out in accordance with the guidelines of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board to ensure the safety and convenience of consumers. The availability of connections will depend on the expansion of the CGD network in the respective area, and consumers can contact the concerned City Gas Distribution company working in their district to get more information.