Patna LPG Shortage: Cylinder Delivery Delayed by 4 Days and New Rules for PNG Connections Announced

Residents in Patna, particularly in areas like Boring Road and PNT Colony, are currently dealing with a severe shortage of LPG cylinders due to a global energy supply crisis and high local demand. While many areas have PNG infrastructure already laid out, active connections remain pending at the doorsteps of several households. The authorities have now introduced strict timelines and rules to expedite the shift to piped gas and manage the current backlog in cylinder deliveries which has crossed four days on average.

What are the new rules for LPG and PNG connections?

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has mandated that LPG supply will be discontinued in areas where PNG infrastructure is available. According to the rule effective from March 24, 2026, households have a three-month window to switch to a PNG connection. In Patna, the Urban Development and Housing Department has simplified the process for pipeline installation. If a No Objection Certificate is not issued within 24 hours of application, agencies are permitted to begin pipeline work automatically to avoid bureaucratic delays. Additionally, the booking interval for domestic LPG has been increased to 25 days in urban areas and 45 days in rural regions to manage supply pressure.

Current Gas Prices and Delivery Status

The current backlog for LPG cylinders in Bihar has reached an average of over four days, with Patna district reporting a 4.5-day delay. Upendra Kumar, Special Secretary of the Food and Consumer Protection Department, mentioned that panic booking by consumers is a major contributor to this situation. Commercial LPG prices saw a significant jump of ₹195.50 on April 3, while domestic prices remained stable this month. GAIL General Manager AK Sinha stated that PNG is a safer and 20% cheaper alternative, with an initial connection cost of only ₹500 in Patna.