PNG, CNG Set to Transform UT’s Energy Landscape
FARHAN BUKHARI
SRINAGAR, Oct 8: In a major step towards expanding access to clean fuel and modernising the energy infrastructure, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir has notified the Jammu & Kashmir City Gas Distribution (CGD) Policy 2026 following its approval by the Council of Ministers.
The policy seeks to establish a comprehensive and user-friendly framework for expanding the use of Piped Natural Gas (PNG) and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) across the Union Territory, covering households, commercial establishments, industries and the transport sector.
A key feature of the policy is its proposed coverage of all 20 districts of Jammu and Kashmir, with the government aiming to facilitate wider access to cleaner and more efficient natural gas-based energy solutions. The policy is expected to provide a structured framework for the development of city gas distribution infrastructure across both urban and industrial areas.
To facilitate faster implementation, the policy provides for single-window and time-bound clearances for various approvals required for the establishment and expansion of gas distribution infrastructure. It also seeks to streamline the setting up of gas stations and standardise Right of Way (RoW) guidelines, which are expected to facilitate the laying of gas pipelines and development of associated infrastructure.
The policy gives particular emphasis to major industrial areas, with IGC Lassipora, Bari Brahmana, Kathua, Samba and Pulwama identified for prioritised gas supply. The move is expected to strengthen the energy infrastructure supporting industrial activity and provide industries with access to a cleaner fuel alternative.
The expansion of the CGD network is also aimed at supporting a gradual transition away from conventional and more polluting fuels. For households and commercial establishments, the availability of PNG is expected to provide a convenient and cleaner source of energy, while CNG can offer an alternative fuel option for the transport sector.
The policy is also expected to have economic implications by helping reduce fuel-related expenses for consumers and businesses, while creating conditions for greater investment in cleaner and more energy-efficient industrial activity.
According to the policy framework, the development of the CGD ecosystem will also generate employment opportunities across multiple areas, including infrastructure development, installation, operation and maintenance. The government has also envisaged opportunities for youth apprenticeships and skill development, potentially creating a trained workforce to support the emerging clean-energy sector.
The expansion of gas infrastructure is expected to contribute to the modernisation of Jammu and Kashmir’s energy network while supporting industrial growth and improving access to cleaner fuels. A wider CGD network could also provide industries with greater flexibility in fuel choices and contribute to efforts aimed at reducing emissions from conventional energy sources.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah congratulated Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Satish Sharma and the concerned department on the notification of the policy, describing it as an important step towards sustainable development in Jammu and Kashmir.
The notification of the CGD Policy 2026 marks the beginning of a structured effort to expand natural gas infrastructure across the Union Territory. Its implementation will now be significant in determining the pace at which households, businesses, industries and transport operators gain access to PNG and CNG facilities.
With its focus on district-wide coverage, faster clearances, streamlined infrastructure development and prioritised industrial supply, the policy is intended to create a wider clean-fuel ecosystem while supporting economic activity, employment generation and the long-term modernisation of J&K’s energy infrastructure.
