New Delhi: In an effort to wean consumers away from LPG, the government has decided to stop supply of cylinders after three months to households that have access to piped natural gas but are reluctant to take connections. India imports about 60% of its LPG requirement, of which about 90% comes through the Strait of Hormuz. Although about half the requirement of LNG – which is converted into PNG and CNG and also used by industries and power plants – is also imported, officials said its supply remains comfortable. Even in rented houses where tenants currently use LPG, they will have to switch, a senior official said. If the authorized body issues NOC stating that it is not technically possible to provide PNG connection, LPG supply will not be stopped. Officials said city gas distribution (CGD) companies will send messages to LPG consumers who can switch to PNG. Timeline has been set for granting right of way or permission to CGD firmsWith an eye on the rapid expansion of piped gas network, the government has made it mandatory for officials to grant right of way or permission to CGD companies within the prescribed timeline, failing which the approval will be deemed to have been granted. The order, issued under the Essential Commodities Act, focuses on reforms to ensure fast-track approvals and time-bound permissions for laying pipeline infrastructure.