Getting a Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connection in Patna is set to become significantly faster and more convenient. The Urban Development and Housing Department of Bihar has issued a fresh directive to streamline the installation process. Under the new rules, if a gas distribution agency does not receive a No Objection Certificate (NOC) within 24 hours of filing an application, the permission will be considered automatically approved, allowing work to begin immediately. This decision will help in the rapid expansion of the gas network in major areas like Raja Bazar, Boring Road, and Saguna More.
What are the new rules for gas pipeline NOC in Bihar?
The Urban Development and Housing Department has instructed all municipal bodies to process NOC applications for gas projects within a 24-hour window. If the department fails to provide a response in this timeframe, the distribution agencies, such as GAIL India Limited, are authorized to start laying the pipelines on their own. Principal Secretary Vinay Kumar has sent official letters to District Magistrates across the state to ensure strict implementation of this rule. This move is designed to eliminate bureaucratic hurdles that previously delayed the availability of clean fuel for households.
Costs and registration details for new PNG connections
The government and distribution companies have kept the entry barrier low for common citizens to encourage the shift from LPG to PNG. The expansion is not limited to Patna but covers 18 district headquarters including Gaya, Muzaffarpur, and Bhagalpur. The following table highlights the key financial details for new users:
| Service Type | Fee and Charges |
|---|---|
| New Registration | Free of cost |
| Security Deposit | 500 Rupees |
| LPG to PNG Switch Discount | Up to 500 Rupees |
| Monthly Target | 3000 New Connections |
Deputy CM Vijay Kumar Sinha has emphasized that administrative delays in PNG expansion will not be tolerated, as the goal is to provide a safer and more affordable fuel alternative to every household. Special camps are also being organized in apartments to provide instant connections to residents.
