Lucknow: Lucknow is witnessing a sharp surge in demand for piped natural gas (PNG) connections amid disruptions in LPG cylinder supply following the West Asia conflict. Green Gas Limited (GGL), the city gas distributor, has received nearly 6,000 applications for new PNG connections so far, reflecting a major shift in consumer preference.On average, 150 to 200 applications are now being submitted daily, almost a tenfold increase from the earlier average of around 20 applications per day before the LPG crisis. Considering the rush for PNG connection registration, the GGL had decided to keep the counters open on Sunday (March 29) as well.Despite having an extensive network, PNG usage in the state capital remains below potential. Currently, Lucknow has approximately 1.08 lakh PNG connections, but only a little more than 82,000 consumers are actively using the service and paying bills. GGL officials said many connections remain dormant due to factors such as vacant properties, or households yet to switch fully from LPG. In Lucknow, there are a total of 18.64 lakh LPG consumers. Speaking to TOI, Rajkishor Behera, director commercial, GGL, said, “There is significant scope for expansion without immediate infrastructure constraints. Amid the ongoing cooking fuel (LPG) uncertainty, GGL is capable of providing up to 3.25 lakh additional PNG connections in Lucknow without requiring major new network development.” As part of its near-term expansion plan and in line with directives from the state administration, GGL is preparing to strengthen its pipeline network in key areas. Over the next two months, the company plans to lay around 30 km of medium density polyethylene (MDPE) pipelines in the Butler Palace area. “The project is expected to facilitate the release of nearly 10,000 new PNG connections in the locality,” said Behera. In the state capital, GGL has a 3,000 km long MDPE network across Gomti Nagar, Indira Nagar, Aliganj, Vikas Nagar, Aashiana, Vrindavan Yojana, Dubagga, Amausi industrial area, Sarojini Nagar and Sultanpur road.
