NEW DELHI
Long waiting times for cooking gas cylinders may soon be eliminated as the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has proposed a new interoperable delivery framework aimed at improving consumer service. The regulator has issued a concept paper inviting feedback from stakeholders and consumers on the plan.
Under the proposal, if a consumer’s designated distributor fails to deliver an LPG cylinder within 24 hours of booking, the order will automatically be transferred to the nearest available distributor. Importantly, the replacement distributor can belong to any of the three major oil marketing companies (OMCs)—Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL), or Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL).
This cross-company service model means that a consumer holding a connection with IOC, for instance, could still have their order fulfilled by BPCL or HPCL if the designated distributor is unable to supply on time. The mechanism is designed to strengthen reliability in a sector that now boasts near-universal LPG coverage across India.
The PNGRB has emphasized that while access has expanded to almost every household, the focus must now shift to ensuring timely and efficient service. The proposed framework is expected to reduce consumer inconvenience, enhance competition among distributors, and ensure better accountability across the supply chain. Stakeholders and the public have been asked to provide their comments on the concept paper before the regulator finalizes the framework. If implemented, the system could mark a major step in improving the quality of LPG services nationwide.