The government is tightening regulations to reduce misuse, promote Piped Natural Gas (PNG), and streamline LPG distribution.

One of the biggest changes is the push for the "One Household, One Connection" policy. Households that already have PNG connections may be required to surrender their LPG connections. Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) have started identifying customers using both PNG and LPG facilities to curb black marketing and hoarding.

Under the revised rules, consumers who obtain a PNG connection may have to terminate their LPG connection within 30 days. However, the government has introduced an LPG Connection Transfer Voucher system, allowing users to restore their LPG connection later if they move to an area where PNG services are unavailable.

Another significant change is the integration of digital databases between City Gas Distribution (CGD) companies and OMCs. Households identified with active PNG connections could face restrictions on LPG refills and new LPG bookings. The move aims to ensure better allocation of subsidized cylinders and reduce dependency on LPG where piped gas infrastructure already exists.

The government is also continuing stricter KYC verification norms. Beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) must complete Aadhaar-based authentication to continue receiving benefits. OTP-based LPG delivery systems are also being promoted to improve transparency and prevent misuse.

Meanwhile, refill lock-in periods remain extended at 25 days for urban consumers and up to 45 days for rural users, compared to the earlier 21-day gap. Customers are also encouraged to use digital booking platforms, which now account for nearly all LPG bookings across the country.

On the pricing front, commercial LPG cylinder rates have increased from June 1 in several cities, while domestic LPG cylinder prices remain unchanged for now.