The Maharashtra government has directed city gas distribution companies to activate 24×7 helplines and increase the number of centres processing applications for piped natural gas (PNG) connections. The step has been taken in the wake of the global energy supply crisis that has arisen due to conflict in West Asia.

The Food and Civil Supplies Department has instructed companies to expand outreach and infrastructure to ensure wider PNG coverage across the state. It directed city gas distribution companies to operationalise 24-hour helplines for consumers and ensure that citizens do not face inconvenience while applying for connections. The companies were also asked to increase the number of helplines and help desks to meet the rising demand.