The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) hosted the irst roadshow for the 12th city gas distribution (CGD) bidding round in Shillong today.
The CGD bidding round aims to achieve 100 per cent coverage of the country by expanding the reach of natural gas by offering eight geographical areas (GAs) covering six North East States and Union Territories (UTs) of Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh.
On completion of the 12th CGD bidding round, the entire country except the islands, will be covered under the city gas distribution network. It will provide access to cleaner cooking fuel for households, support industrial and commercial facilities and fuel transportation, marking a giant leap towards achieving a gas-based economy.
The event was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar in the presence of Dr. Anil Kumar Jain, Chairperson PNGRB.
Speaking on the occasion, Dhar stressed the substantial benefits that Meghalaya stands to gain from the successful completion of this round. He said access to clean energy stands at the forefront that will mark a significant step toward providing citizens with environment-friendly natural gas. This aligns seamlessly with the state’s commitment to sustainable development, fostering a greener Meghalaya, and creating economic opportunities, he added.
Jain highlighted the fact that the North East Region as a whole has ample gas resources and arrival of cross-country pipelines as well as CGD Networks is a singular event in the energy story of North East. He said with the completion of Barauni Guwahati trunk pipeline, and Guwahati-Dimapur pipeline by GAIL and IGGL, the NE part of the country will be integrated with the national gas grid.
He also urged the Meghalaya government to bring reform with regards to taxation on natural gas and developing a CGD Policy in on the basis of draft policy provided by MoPNG.
Electronic bids have been invited from October 13, with the last date for submission of bids set for January 11, 2024, for 7 GAs under 12th CGD bidding round, and February 23, 2024 for Mizoram GA. PNGRB aims to finalise the award by February-March 2024.
