Pune:Centre’s decision to prohibit those with piped natural gas (PNG) connections from retaining their liquified petroleum gas (LPG) subscriptions has come as a shocker for many in the city, amid the ongoing shortage of the fuel.According to a circular issued by the petroleum ministry on Saturday, those with PNG connections will now be required to surrender their LPG access. In Pune region, Maharashtra Natural Gas Ltd (MNGL) supplies PNG to more than 8 lakh households.“How can such a decision be taken amid the ongoing LPG crisis? This will create more panic and disorder. While PNG connections and supply are normal, given the current circumstances, anything can happen. Govt must reconsider this decision and postpone it until things are under control,” said a Kondhwa-based resident, whose family has both connections, while requesting anonymity.Sources in MNGL told TOI that supply of PNG and CNG is continuing without any hiccups. “As far as the circular is concerned, it has just come and we don’t have any further information about it. The finer points pertaining to it are expected to arrive this week. We will find out whether we have to provide information about those with PNG connections and to which authority,” a senior MNGL official said.It has been almost a week since the ongoing conflict in West Asia began to impact LPG supply, causing many city residents to succumb to panic buying and waiting in long queues outside gas agencies for refills.Many eateries have shut shop or trimmed menus temporarily, those dependent on tiffin services and mess meals are suffering, and households are looking for ways to curtail cooking gas use.A resident who resides with her family in Vimannagar said the timing of the latest diktat is terrible. “We have both LPG and PNG connections. We are trying different ways to save LPG and are also curtailing use of PNG. Why is such a decision is being taken now to add to the confusion and complications? People will surely panic,” she said.
