Given the current fuel shortage in the country and the increasing pressure on imports, the Petroleum Ministry has significantly tightened the rules for domestic gas use. Now, not only possessing a cylinder, but even having a "double" connection at home will be a crime. What exactly are the new rules and how could they impact the common man? Let's find out in detail.

1. Possession of more than two cylinders is a 'crime'; punishable by 7 years' imprisonment

According to government regulations, a domestic consumer is allowed to possess a maximum of two LPG cylinders (14.2 kg). Storing more than 40 kg of LPG without government permission is considered "hoarding."

According to Section 7 of the Essential Commodities Act 1955, if found guilty, the government can confiscate all cylinders used beyond the limit and your gas connection can be cancelled forever.

2. Simultaneous PNG and LPG connections? Not possible now.

The Petroleum Ministry made a major change in March 2026. Now, those with pipeline gas (PNG) in their homes will no longer be able to keep LPG cylinders. If you have a PNG connection in your home and still use an LPG cylinder, it will be considered illegal. The government has appealed to such consumers to immediately surrender their LPG connections. If you surrender the connection yourself, there will be no penalty. However, if both connections are found during inspection, legal action will be taken.

3. Where to report illegal storage?

Preventing gas black marketing or illegal storage requires the participation of ordinary citizens. If you notice a large number of cylinders accumulating in your area, you can complain at the following locations:
LPG Emergency Helpline: Contact 1906 directly.
You can also file a complaint by writing to the District Food and Supplies Department, local police station, or tehsil office.

The government has taken these tough steps to address energy resource shortages and provide gas to the poor. So, if you have PNG, give up your desire for LPG and avoid getting caught in legal trouble by hoarding cylinders unnecessarily.

PC: The Sunday Guardian