The Natural Gas and Petroleum Products Distribution Order, 2026, notified by the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas on 24 March 2026 under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, provides a comprehensive framework for the expansion of natural gas and petroleum product distribution infrastructure across the country. According to this order, Authorised entity i.e. Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Joint Venture Partner are permitted to lay pipelines across public and private land, and all concerned authorities and landowners are required to provide Right of Way after payment of appropriate charges.
A fast-track approval mechanism has been prescribed, stipulating strict timelines (ranging from 10 to 60 days), beyond which approvals shall be deemed to be granted. To facilitate rapid rollout in urban areas, permissions in residential societies are required to be granted within three days, and Pipe Natural Gas connection approvals to households within 48 hours.
A key provision of the Order stipulates that in areas where Pipe Natural Gas (PNG) infrastructure is available, Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply may be discontinued after a period of three months if households or residential societies do not opt for Pipe Natural Gas, except where such connectivity is not technically feasible. The Order restricts authorities from imposing arbitrary charges and mandates transparent, time-bound processing of applications. In cases of refusal by private landowners, the matter may be referred to the District Magistrate, who is empowered to take a final decision after due process.
Accountability provisions have been incorporated for authorised entities, including penalties and potential withdrawal of authorisation in cases of failure to execute pipeline laying within the stipulated timeframe. Additionally, safety-related restrictions have been prescribed on land use over pipeline corridors. The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has been designated as the nodal agency for monitoring approvals, implementation progress, and overall compliance under the Order.
This Order has been circulated to all Departments, Oil Marketing Companies and Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Joint Venture Partner for strict compliance. It is further clarified that switching to Pipe Natural Gas has multiple benefits as it a lower risk and more cost effective fuel besides the advantage of uninterrupted supply. For any further information, Indian Oil Corporation Limited may be contacted at 180023355666.
