Patna: Bihar is set to significantly expand its piped natural gas (PNG) network, with around 4,00,000 households expected to receive connections in the coming months as the state government accelerates efforts to reduce dependence on LPG cylinders.
Officials said 99,346 households currently have active PNG connections, while a further 55,025 homes are ready to be linked. Infrastructure has already been laid to extend supply to an additional 3,39,000 households, signalling a rapid scale-up of the network across the state.
The rollout comes amid concerns over cooking gas accessibility, though the government has maintained that there is no shortage of LPG cylinders. With the wedding season underway, district administrations have been instructed to ensure adequate availability of commercial cylinders and timely delivery to households.
Six companies have been authorised by the central government to oversee the distribution of PNG and compressed natural gas (CNG) across Bihar’s 38 districts. GAIL will operate in Patna, Hindustan Petroleum in Banka, and Think Gas in Begusarai. Indian Oil-Adani Gas will cover Gaya and Nalanda, while Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has been assigned 10 districts including Darbhanga. Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) will manage the remaining 24 districts.
The pace of connections has increased sharply in recent months. While between 3,000 and 3,500 connections were issued monthly last year, the figure rose to about 8,000 per month by March 2026. Gas supply through pipelines has already begun in 17 districts.
To streamline access, authorities have introduced app-based KYC verification, allowing consumers to complete formalities from home. Delivery timelines for LPG cylinders have also been tightened, with supplies now expected within three to four days of booking.
Meanwhile, enforcement agencies have intensified action against black marketing and illegal storage. More than 25,000 inspections have been conducted, leading to the seizure of 1,662 cylinders and the registration of 114 cases, officials said.
