BMC Begins Installation of PNG at Gomata Nagar, Worli

Photographer: Shrija Mahajan

The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), has begun installing underground gas pipelines at Gomata Nagar, Worli in order to facilitate Piped Natural Gas (PNG) by Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL). PNG will reach individuals through these pipelines and the residents will receive their gas invoice monthly, similar to electricity bills.

According to the customer service executive of MGL, PNG is more convenient because it is hassle-free. The customer does not have to refill or change it. It is safer than LPG cylinders because it disperses air more quickly, thereby reducing flammability. It would also reduce the workload of carrying heavy cylinders. Furthermore, PNG is environmentally friendly because it primarily consists of hydrocarbons and 95% methane, resulting in complete combustion.

Currently, a single Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinder costs Rs.1052 .50 per 14.2kg. PNG is predicted to be more cost effective for citizens as a metered bill would be generated based on one’s consumption. The bill will be generated every two months. According to a source, the maximum sum of a two month bill should amount to

approximately around Rs. 1000, depending on

consumption. Each resident had to pay a mandatory amount of Rs. 6000 for the installation, inclusive of pipeline connection and metre installation at home.

Residents are open to this change in lifestyle so far. A resident of Gomata Nagar, Kaushik Gujjeti said, "I think it would be good for us because it would eliminate the work of carrying heavy cylinders, we would not have to be tensed if at a time we run out of fuel. Also I came to know that this is safer than LPG." The installation work of PNG at Gomata Nagar is 10% complete, and the entire installation would take more than 10 months, said a BMC worker.