Expert Panel Formed to End Natural Gas Monopolies

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has established an expert committee under former Sebi chairman Ajay Tyagi. The committee is tasked with recommending measures to dismantle monopolies in the natural gas sector, focusing on separating transportation and marketing activities. The panel's report is expected within three months.

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has created a dedicated committee to address monopoly concerns in the natural gas sector. Under the leadership of former Sebi chairman Ajay Tyagi, the committee will explore ways to separate businesses involved in both transportation and marketing of natural gas.

This eight-member committee is mandated to submit actionable recommendations within three months on how to dissolve monopolies, particularly those in city gas retailing. A significant issue noted is the lack of third-party access to gas pipelines, which prevents fair competition.

Among the committee's objectives is to evaluate global practices and propose a feasible model for India, focusing on splitting entities engaged in both activities. The aim is to open up the market, fostering competition and benefiting end consumers.