Gujarat is fast emerging as the leader in the city gas distribution sector in India. Out of the total PNG (piped natural gas) connections in the country, 48 % are in Gujarat alone. Similar is the case with PNG industrial connections (for small and medium enterprises), as 64 % are in the state.
Not only that, out of total PNG commercial and non-commercial connections in India, 72 % are in Gujarat. The state has has 34 % of the total CNG stations in India. Gujarat is the only state with a gas transmission grid of 2,540 km which has made the state a hub of natural gas. It is the only state where 24 out of 33 districts are covered by CNG/PNG.
As of now, more than a million families across Gujarat are enjoying the benefits of highly affordable PNG prices in comparison with other gas fuel. Similarly, vehicles using CNG are saving around 45-50% as compared to petrol run vehicles. All this transformation is taking place under the leadership of Chief Minister Anandiben Patel in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to boost economy for overall development of the society.
Gas transmission network, set up by the Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC) group, Gujarat State Petronet Limited (GSPL), has played a crucial role for simultaneous development of city gas distribution network across the state. GSPC is an integrated energy company which has its presence across the energy value chain.
“We have adopted the strategy to synergise the transmission network of GSPL and distribution network of city gas distribution (CGD), so that where ever transmission network of GSPL ends, distribution network of CGDs starts. This enables faster linkage of gas supply points with gas consumption points,” said official sources, adding “GSPC has also persuaded various government departments for faster clearances and permissions for laying of gas network and also encouraged use of natural gas in the retail segment”.
Gujarat Gas Limited (GGL), a GSPC Group company and Government of Gujarat Undertaking, has been a leader in the city gas distribution sector in Gujarat and also in the country. Out of the total PNG domestic connections in Gujarat, 72% are provided by GGL alone.
Similarly, out of the total PNG Industrial connections (SMEs) in Gujarat, 71% are provided by GGL. Out of the total PNG commercial / non – commercial connections in Gujarat, 69% are provided by Gujarat Gas Limited. Out of the total CNG Stations in Gujarat, 64% are set up by GGL.
Gujarat Gas Limited (GGL), being an amalgamated entity, is leading vis-à-vis other major CGD companies like Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) and Mahanagar Gas Limited in all PNG segments (domestic, industrial and commercial).
In PNG and CNG segment, IGL and MGL are mainly concentrated within urban areas like New Delhi, Mumbai. Thus PNG & CNG availability is confined only to the urban population. In contrast, Gujarat Gas Limited is the only and first CGD company of India to expand its gas network in every nook & corner of the state and successfully provided PNG and CNG to rural population. And this makes GGL different from other companies. Thus GGL has, in a way, achieved “Rurbanisation” in the state.
Efforts have been made to make PNG affordable for urban area, rural area and all income groups. GGL is offering a scheme of initial registration deposit of Rs 1100 and the balance of Rs 4,000 to be paid in 20 interest-free monthly instalments of Rs 200 each.
There are easy bill payment options for the rural customers. An e-Gram network has been set up for providing bill payment facilities for its rural PNG domestic customers. There are more than 500 e-Gram centers across Gujarat. Besides, there is 24 X 7 emergency services and customer care facilities across urban and rural areas.
GGL has adopted innovative practice to make CNG available in city / town / village areas. There is easy availability of CNG on National Highways, State Highways and roads connecting various cities, towns, villages to promote CNG conversion and boost CNG demand.
GGL is also supplying PNG to more than 2850 small and medium industries, across the state, catering to chemicals, pharmaceuticals, ceramic, glass, engineering industry, textile industries etc. The company has also set up gas pipeline network with a view on industrial areas and provided eco-friendly PNG for industrial units
The official sources said use of PNG has helped to ensure sustainable development of the industries and contribute towards overall industrial growth of the state. It has also helped towards environment protection and curbing air pollution, they added.
In the last two years, Gujarat Gas has been reducing its prices in all the segments. This was made possible due to efficient sourcing support provided by the GSPC and consumer-friendly policies implemented by the Centre.
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