Haryana to unveil new city gas distribution policy to boost investment

Chandigarh: The Haryana government is set to introduce a revamped City Gas Distribution (CGD) Policy aimed at speeding up natural gas infrastructure development and attracting fresh investment across the state, a senior official said on Thursday.

Chief secretary Anurag Rastogi announced the move during a review meeting with the Industries and Commerce Department and other concerned departments. He instructed officials to incorporate recommendations from the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) to ensure the policy aligns with national standards and industry needs.

According to an official statement, the new CGD policy is expected to unlock wider opportunities for public and private investment in gas pipelines and distribution networks. Rastogi said the policy is designed to create a supportive environment for developing pipeline infrastructure while ensuring fair competition and prioritising consumer safety and accessibility.

He added that expanding the CGD network will help Haryana cut its dependence on crude oil by promoting cleaner energy options for households and industries.

Under the Draft CGD Policy 2025, companies authorised by PNGRB will be able to apply for Right of Use (RoU) and Right of Way (RoW) permissions through the state’s single-window portal. Applicants must submit a Common Application Form along with GIS-based route maps, work plans, land details and technology specifications, including HDD, trenchless boring or open trenching.

The draft also introduces a clear and transparent fee structure to simplify financial processes.

Industries and commerce commissioner and secretary Amit K Agrawal said the updated policy builds on Haryana’s 2010 CGD guidelines, modernising them to match current technological and administrative requirements.

The Industries and Commerce Department will act as the nodal agency to roll out the policy and coordinate with all stakeholder departments.

(with inputs from agencies)