In response to the ongoing crisis surrounding LPG gas availability and difficulties in cylinder booking, the Bihar government has made a significant decision to expedite the rollout of PNG (Piped Natural Gas) connections in urban regions. This initiative aims specifically at the infrastructure development in 18 district headquarters, including key cities such as Patna, Gaya, and Muzaffarpur. The Principal Secretary of the Urban Development and Housing Department has issued new guidelines to all district magistrates, emphasizing the urgency of this task.

The government has instructed district authorities to prioritize regions where the PNG infrastructure is being established. In addition to the major cities mentioned, places like Begusarai, Shekhupura, and Samastipur are also included in this plan. The directives are clear — gas distribution companies must be granted immediate permission to set up PNG networks and plants within municipal areas. This reflects an understanding from the authorities that the existing challenges with LPG could be mitigated through the establishment of reliable PNG supply services.

Furthermore, oil companies have been mandated to provide land and other necessary facilities to gas distributors without delay. This swift action is expected to significantly increase the availability of cooking gas services in Bihar, as PNG serves to offer a more stable and readily available alternative to traditional LPG cylinders, ultimately addressing the pressing concerns of households facing gas shortages.