Patna: The pace of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connection provisioning in Bihar has increased significantly, reaching around 7,585 connections per month in March. The state is now targeting to take this to 9,000 to 12,000 per month.Various such data were shared at a crisis management group meeting chaired by chief secretary Pratyaya Amrit on Monday.The meeting, organised by the food and consumer protection department, reviewed the expansion of PNG infrastructure across the state and the status of domestic LPG supply and distribution.Officials told the officials in the meeting that the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board has authorised six companies for CNG and PNG supply across all 38 districts of Bihar. These districts have been divided into 14 geographical areas keeping gas availability in view.As on April 8, a total of 1 lakh domestic PNG connections have been commissioned across the state. The chief secretary directed companies to further accelerate the pace of PNG provisioning to 9,000 to 12,000 connections per month.During the review of LPG supply, the officials were informed that as on April 11, the average daily demand for LPG refills in Bihar stood at 4,42,348, while the average daily refill supply was 3,58,005.To curb irregularities and black marketing in LPG distribution, an intensive inspection drive was carried out at gas agencies and other locations across the state. So far, 30,950 inspections have been conducted. During the drive, 1,814 illegal or irregular cylinders were seized, action was taken in 45 cases under Section 6A, and 138 FIRs were registered.The meeting also approved distribution of 5 kg ‘free trade cylinder’ for consumers’ convenience.The chief secretary directed in charge secretaries and district magistrates to take effective steps to reduce complaints received at control rooms and ensure prompt disposal of registered grievances in their districts.Instructions were also issued to ensure adequate LPG availability during the upcoming wedding season and for uninterrupted operation of telecom towers.Additional chief secretaries, principal secretaries, secretaries of departments and representatives of oil companies attended the meeting.
