Piped Gas Connections Coming Soon to Chennai Homes!
Imagine having piped gas connections in your kitchen. This is about to become a reality for residents of Chennai as the Government of Tamil Nadu is set to introduce a piped natural gas (PNG) supply scheme. This project, currently in its first phase, has already seen over 30,000 households register by paying ₹576 each.
The initiative is expected to be implemented in Chennai by the end of this year, with ongoing work in residential areas. The Tamil Nadu government is making significant efforts to provide PNG connections to households across Chennai. Sources from the oil industry have indicated that private companies will construct 666 km of roads in Chennai and Tiruvallur. This construction is challenging due to the presence of essential infrastructure such as water, sewerage, electricity, internet, and telephone lines under the city`s roads.
Over the next four years, PNG connections will be provided to approximately 33 lakh customers in Chennai and Tiruvallur. The main pipeline runs from Manali via Jawaharlal Road, reaching Madhavaram Circle, Kathippara, and extending to Meenambakkam. Branch routes will be constructed in residential areas to facilitate these connections.
PNG connections will function similarly to LPG reticulated connections, with gas accessible through a regulator in homes, akin to electricity. The supply will be metered and billed accordingly, eliminating the need for gas cylinders. The company has committed to issuing PNG connections within 90 days of collecting the initial booking fee.
For efficient use, PNG stoves require large diameter burners with large nozzles. The Petroleum Conservation Research Society is advising consumers to switch to PNG-compliant stoves, as current small stoves are ineffective.
Out of the 222 CNG outlets set up in Chennai and Tiruvallur, 70 are operational, supplying about 10,000 kg of CNG to approximately 6,800 vehicles daily. Registration for PNG connections has started, with over 2,000 households already signed up by paying ₹576 each. Residents` welfare associations are optimistic that more residents will register as the pipeline infrastructure expands.
Currently, gas is supplied through DC units located at Kelambakkam, Perumbakkam, and an LCNG station at Semmancherry. As pipeline advancements continue, auxiliary gas stations will be established to ensure quick and easy gas delivery.
This development marks a significant step towards modernizing the energy infrastructure in Chennai, promising convenience and efficiency for its residents.
