Odisha Moves to Frame City Gas Distribution Policy to Boost Clean Energy Access

Bhubaneswar: In a major push towards clean energy and improved urban infrastructure, the Housing & Urban Development Department, Government of Odisha has initiated the process of formulating a comprehensive City Gas Distribution (CGD) Policy to expand access to piped natural gas across the state.

A high-level consultative meeting was held at Kharabela Bhawan under the chairpersonship of Usha Padhee, Additional Chief Secretary and Chairperson of IDCO, in collaboration with GAIL (India) Limited and Indian Oil Corporation Limited. The meeting focused on preparing a strategic roadmap for expanding Piped Natural Gas (PNG) infrastructure across urban Odisha.

Chairing the session, Padhee highlighted the importance of a forward-looking yet practical policy framework to accelerate the rollout of city gas networks. She said the proposed policy would play a key role in ensuring clean, efficient, and reliable energy access, while supporting sustainable urban growth.

Officials discussed several key aspects of the proposed policy, including streamlining approvals, rationalising licence fees, introducing single-window clearance systems, and enabling deemed approvals to fast-track project implementation. Emphasis was also laid on strengthening institutional coordination and service delivery mechanisms.

The initiative is being developed in close partnership with major energy stakeholders to leverage technical expertise and ensure efficient execution of infrastructure projects. Officials noted that the policy will significantly enhance ease of living for urban residents by providing safer and more convenient energy solutions.

Among those present at the meeting were Arindam Dakua, Director of Municipal Administration, Kirandeep Kaur Sahota, Commissioner of Cuttack Municipal Corporation, along with senior officials from IDCO, the H&UD Department, and representatives from IOCL and GAIL.

The proposed CGD policy is expected to accelerate PNG network expansion, strengthen stakeholder coordination, and position Odisha as a leader in clean and sustainable urban energy solutions.