Good news for people using CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) and PNG (Piped Natural Gas). The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has approved a new unified tariff regulation.
This change is expected to reduce the prices of CNG and PNG in many cities across the country.
Fewer Tariff Zones Under Discussion
According to a report by CNBC-Awaaz, discussions are underway to reduce the number of tariff zones from three to two.
Until now, the country was divided into three zones for gas pricing. With the new plan, it could be limited to just two zones, allowing more cities
and people to benefit from the same tariff. An official announcement is expected in the next 2–3 days.
Same Tariff for Everyone in a Zone
Under the new system, all users within the same zone will pay the same rate for gas. Earlier, prices were based on how far your area was from the gas source—the farther you lived, the more expensive the gas.
With this unified tariff, distance will no longer affect prices. This is likely to make gas cheaper in far-off and remote areas, giving people some financial relief.
Government’s Expansion Plan and Benefits
The government has set a goal of providing 12 crore domestic PNG connections by 2030 and setting up 17,500 CNG stations by 2025, as part of its Common Minimum Program.
CNG and PNG are both eco-friendly fuels that cause less pollution. CNG is more affordable than petrol, helping drivers save money.
PNG, on the other hand, is cheaper than LPG and is supplied directly to homes through pipelines—removing the need for gas cylinders.
