Centre tightens rules for gas meter safety

New Delhi

The Department of Consumer Affairs has announced new draft rules to protect users from faulty gas meters. These rules make it compulsory for all gas meters—used in homes, businesses, and industries—to be tested, verified, and stamped before being used in trade or billing.

The main aim is to ensure accurate gas measurement, transparency, and fair charges for consumers. Meters will also undergo regular re-verification to stay reliable during use. This move will help prevent overcharging and reduce disputes, ensuring consumers only pay for the gas they actually use.

According to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, these updated rules fall under the Legal Metrology (General) Rules, 2011. Verified meters will lead to fairer billing, better energy use, and lower maintenance costs. The rules also set a clear compliance system for manufacturers and gas suppliers, matching international standards set by the International Organization of Legal Metrology (OIML).

To develop the draft, a technical committee including experts from the Indian Institute of Legal Metrology, Regional Reference Standard Labs, and consumer organizations was formed. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) also gave scientific support.

The draft rules were shared with stakeholders like meter manufacturers, city gas firms, state departments, and testing labs. After reviewing feedback, changes were made to ensure the rules are balanced and practical.

A transitional period has been built in so companies and officials can smoothly adopt the new system. These steps will bring India closer to global standards and strengthen trust in gas metering and billing systems.