The continuous increase in gas demand throughout the country is expected to drive the city gas distribution (CGD) network expansion. As much as 70 per cent of the country’s population is expected to come under the CGD network by 2030, up from 20-30 per cent currently. From an area perspective as well, coverage is expected to go up to 53 per cent from around 10 per cent in 2014.
Currently, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board is working on its 11th bidding round with the aim of covering 300 districts, which will increase the reach to the entire population. Within the CGD network, expansion in domestic piped natural gas connections and increase in gas usage as transportation fuel through compressed natural gas looks the most promising prospect.