[ 1575 ]
GOVERNMENT OF PUDUCHERRY
DIRECTORATE OF INDUSTRIES AND COMMERCE
(SECRETARIAT WING)
(G.O. Ms. No. 7/Ind&Com/Tech/U-I/T10/2023-24,
Puducherry, dated 09th October 2023)
NOTIFICATION
The Government of India is keen to cut emissions through a greater
share of environment-friendly natural gas for auto and cooking fuel and
towards achieving its ‘One Nation One Gas Grid’ vision.
The Government of India has taken decisive action to enhance the
share of Natural Gas in the primary energy basket from the existing
6.71% to 15% by 2030.
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La Gazette de L' État de Poudouchéry
The Gazette of Puducherry
PART - II
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2023 } ∂¬º¶V√Ï | 11 {
No. 78 Poudouchéry
Mercredi
11
Octobre
2023
No.
Puducherry
Wednesday
11th
October
2023
(19 Asvina 1945)
1576
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act, 2006
provides the legal framework for the development of natural gas
pipelines and city or local gas distribution networks. The Ministry of
Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, has notified a Policy
namely, “Development of Natural Gas Pipelines and City or Local Natural
Gas Distribution Networks” on 20th December, 2006. The objective of
the said Government of India Policy is to promote investment from the
public as well as the private sector in natural gas pipelines and city or
local natural gas distribution networks and to secure the consumer
interest in terms of gas availability and reasonable tariff for natural gas
pipelines and city or local natural gas distribution networks.
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB)
established under the abovesaid Act, is the Competent Authority for
selecting an entity to lay, build, operate or expand a natural gas pipeline
or a city or local natural gas distribution network in the Country.
The Government of India is rapidly expanding the City Gas
Distribution (CGD) networks across the Country, so as to provide cleaner
fuel through Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to households, industrial and
commercial units, as well as transportation fuel through Compressed
Natural Gas (CNG) to vehicles. The Government of India is also keen on
utilizing domestically produced natural gas in the form of Liquefied
Natural Gas (LNG).
A necessity on the part of the Government of Puducherry has
arosen to notify a City Gas Distribution Policy for standardizing the road
restoration/permission charges along with time-bound issue of
permissions in the Union territory of Puducherry.
The Policy proposes to nominate the Directorate of Industries and
Commerce, Government of Puducherry, as the Nodal Agency for all such
assigned projects in order to expedite the implementation of Petroleum
and Natural Gas Pipeline Projects and City Gas Distribution Network
Projects (CGD) in the Union territory of Puducherry.
The Puducherry City Gas Distribution Policy-2023 proposes the
following objectives:
(1) To promote the adoption of natural gas in the Union territory
of Puducherry as a Green and Clean fuel.
1577
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LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(2) To ensure compliance with safe operations by City Gas
Distribution entities and also to entrust the entities to provide a reliable/
uninterrupted supply of natural gas.
(3) To develop applicable rules/regulations to encourage the
use of natural gas for industrial, commercial, transportation and
household purposes in a phased manner.
(4) To encourage Compressed Natural Gas/Liquefied Natural
Gas as a preferred transport fuel, Liquefied Natural Gas bunkering in
fishing vessels/boats and Conversion of Diesel generators in Telecom
service towers with Gas generators.
The Puducherry City Gas Distribution Policy-2023 was approved
by the Council of Ministers on 04-10-2023.
The Hon’ble Lieutenant-Governor, Puducherry, is pleased to accord
approval to the Puducherry City Gas Distribution Policy-2023.
The Department of Industries and Commerce shall formulate
Guidelines wherever required for implementing the Policy.
(By order of the Lieutenant-Governor)
P.T. RUDRA GOUD,
Joint Secretary to Government
(Industries and Commerce).
————
PUDUCHERRY CITY GAS DISTRIBUTION POLICY – 2023
1. Introduction
1.1. Overview : India being the fastest growing economy in the
world with the status of being the most populous Country, the 3rd largest
energy consumer in the world and the 14th in natural gas consumption
is rapidly increasing its energy demand. On the other side, there is an
urgent need to reduce the environmental pollution caused due to the
usage of polluting liquid fuel, thereby, significantly reduce the carbon
footprint, in line with India’s COP 21 commitment in UN Framework
Convention on climate change extended in Paris Agreement. In this
context, the Government of India has taken decisive action to enhance
the share of Natural Gas in primary energy basket from existing 6.71%
to 15% by 2030.
1578
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
The Government of India is rapidly expanding the City Gas
Distribution (CGD) networks across the Country, so as to provide cleaner
fuel through Piped Natural Gas (PNG) to households, industrial and
commercial units, as well as transportation fuel through Compressed
Natural Gas (CNG) to vehicles. The Government of India is also keen in
utilizing the domestically produced natural gas in the form of Liquefied
Natural Gas (LNG) which is cheaper than the imported natural Gas.
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB)
under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), Government
of India, has assigned four CGD entities, one each for the four regions
of this Union territory of Puducherry for development of Natural Gas
Infrastructure and CGD network. The estimated project cost of
developing the CGD network in the four regions is around 700 Crores.
The CGD entities are bound to complete the project in the span of eight
years from the date of approval from PNGRB as per the Minimum Work
Program (MWP) set out by PNGRB. In the context of above, there is
necessity on the part of Government of Puducherry to notify a CGD
Policy for standardizing the road restoration/permission charges along
with time bound permissions. As such CGD Policy for this Union
Territory namely, “Puducherry CGD Policy-2023” is notified by the
Directorate of Industries and Commerce, Puducherry.
Definition
1.1.1. “Act” means, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory
Board (PNGRB) Act, 2006;
1.1.2. “Authorised area” mean, the specified geographical area
for a city or local natural gas distribution (CGD) network authorized
under these regulations for laying, building, operating or
expanding the CGD network which may comprise of the following
categories, either individually or in any combination thereof,
depending upon the criteria of economic viability and contiguity
as stated in Schedule-A, namely:–
(i) geographic area, in its entirety or in part thereof, within
a Municipality, any other urban area notified by the
Central or Puducherry Government, Village Panchayat,
Commune Panchayat, Taluk, Region or District, or any
combination thereof;
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LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
1.1.3. “Board” means, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory
Board constituted under sub-section(1) of the section 3 of the Act
and established under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas,
Government of India;
1.1.4. “City Gas Station (CGS)” means, the point where custody
transfer of natural gas from the main natural gas transmission line
to the CGD network takes place;
1.1.5. “City or local natural gas distribution (CGD) network”
means, an interconnected network of gas pipelines and the
associated equipment used for transporting natural gas from a bulk
supply high-pressure transmission main to the medium-pressure
distribution grid and subsequently to the service pipes supplying
natural gas to domestic, industrial or commercial premises and CNG
Station situated in a specified geographical area;
1.1.6. “CNG Station” mean, a filling station where one or more
dispensing units are provided for sale of compressed natural gas;
1.1.7. “Compressed Natural Gas (CNG)” mean, natural gas used
as fuel for vehicles. Typically compressed to a pressure ranging
from 200 to 250 bars in the gaseous state;
1.1.8. “Development of a CGD network” mean, laying, building,
operating or expanding a city or local natural gas distribution
network;
1.1.9. “DRS/PRS/MRS” mean, District Regulating Station/
Pressure Regulating Station/Metering and Regulating Station for
reducing the pressure of natural gas flowing through pipeline
network from 49 barg to 5 barg approximately;
1.1.10. “Entity” means, a person, association of persons, Firm,
Company, or Co-operative Society, by whatsoever name called or
referred to, other than a dealer or distributor and engaged or
intending to be engaged in refining, processing, storage,
transportation, distribution, marketing, import and export of
petroleum, petroleum products and natural gas, including laying
of pipelines for transportation of petroleum, petroleum products,
and natural gas, or laying, building, operating or expanding city
or local natural gas distribution network or establishing and
operating a Liquefied Natural Gas terminal;
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LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
1.1.11. “LCNG” means, CNG produced at the fueling station from
LNG by pumping and vapourisation;
1.1.12. “Liquefied Natural Gas” (LNG) mean, a fluid in the liquid
state composed predominantly of methane (CH4) and which may
contain minor quantities of ethane, propane, nitrogen, or other
components normally found in natural gas;
1.1.13. “Local distribution entity” mean, an entity authorized by
the Board under section 20 of the Act to lay, build, operate or
expand a city or local natural gas distribution network;
1.1.14. “MDPE Pipeline” mean, Medium Density Poly Ethylene
pipeline used for flow of medium/low pressure natural gas nearly
5 barg;
1.1.15. “Natural Gas” mean, gas obtained from boreholes and
consisting primarily of hydrocarbons and includes (i) gas in a
liquid state, namely, liquefied natural gas (LNG) and the regasified
liquefied natural gas, (ii) compressed natural gas (CNG), (iii) gas
imported through transnational pipelines, including CNG or
liquefied natural gas, (iv) gas recovered from gas hydrates as
natural gas, (v) methane obtained from coal seams namely, coal bed
methane, but, does not include helium occurring in association with
such hydrocarbons;
1.1.16. “Piped Natural Gas (PNG)” mean, natural gas transported
through pipelines or cascades or any other permitted mode in a
CGD network for consumption by any customer in the domestic,
commercial or industrial segment and includes natural gas supplied
to an online CNG Station before its compressions;
1.1.17. “Regulations” means, regulations made by the Board
under PNGRB Act, 2006;
1.1.18. “SR” means, Service Regulator used for reducing
pressure from 5 barg to 110 milli barg;
1.1.19. “Work Program” until issuance of authorization letter,
means, the number of domestic PNG connections, number of CNG
stations and inch-kilometer of steel pipeline network as quoted by
the bidder in the bid and after such issue on means number of
domestic PNG connections, number of CNG stations and
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PART–II]
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
inch-kilometer of steel pipeline network as mentioned in the
authorization letter as per Schedule-D of CGD Authorization
Regulations.
2. Objectives of this CGD Policy
2.1. To promote the adoption of natural gas in the Union
territory of Puducherry as a Green and Clean fuel.
2.2. To ensure faster development and implementation of CGD
infrastructure in the Union Territory.
2.3. To ensure compliance with safe operations by CGD entities
and also to entrust the entities to provide a reliable/uninterrupted
supply of natural gas.
2.4. To facilitate in issue of permissions/clearance/charges in a
time-bound manner and provide necessary support mechanism.
2.5. To Develop applicable rules/regulations to encourage the
use of natural gas for industrial, commercial, transportation, and
household purposes in a phased manner.
2.6. To encourage CNG/LNG as a preferred transport fuel, LNG
bunkering in fishing vessels and boats.Conversion of Diesel generators
in Telecom service towers with Gas generators. In this regard, the
charges and other aspects shall be notified from time to time, upon the
readiness of CGD entities in establishing the CGD networks across the
Union Territory and ensuring uninterrupted supply of natural gas to all
the customers.
2.7. This policy shall come into effect from the date of
notification of this Policy by the Government of Puducherry in the
Official Gazette.
3. Union Territory Level CGD Policy : The Government of
Puducherry shall accord priority to encourage the use of natural gas as
a fuel for Piped Natural Gas (PNG) for the domestic, commercial, and
industrial sectors; and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) for the
transportation sector. In order to ensure, the coverage of CGD
infrastructure across the Union Territory and to derive benefits from
value-added services and employment opportunities, the Government of
Puducherry hereby notifies guidelines for expeditious and safe
implementation of CGD networks and value added services across the
Union territory of Puducherry.
1582
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
3.1. High-Level Committee on CGD Development
3.1.1. A High Level Committee shall be formed under the
Chairmanship of the Chief Secretary to Government to facilitate
the following:
3.1.1.1. Creation of CGD infrastructure and value-added
services;
3.1.1.2. Formulation of policies and streamlining the processes
for various permissions;
3.1.1.3. Make suitable mechanisms for permission from the
concerned authorities of PESO (Petroleum and Explosive
Safety
Organization)/NHAI
(National
Highway
Authority of India)/Railway/Ministry of Urban
Development (MoUD)/Ministry of Road Transport and
Highways (MoRTH)/Ministry of Environment, Forest
and Climate Changes (MoEF & CC), etc.
3.1.2. The constitution of the High Level Committee is as below.
(i) The Chief Secretary to Government,
. . Chairman
Puducherry.
(ii) The Secretary to Government
. . Vice-
(Industries and Commmerce),
Chairman
Puducherry.
(iii) The Secretary to Government
. . Member
(Local Administration Department),
Puducherry.
(iv) The Secretary to Government
. . Member
(Public Works Department),
Puducherry.
(v) The Secretary to Government (Electricity), . . Member
Puducherry.
(vi) The Secretary to Government
. . Member
(Information Technology),
Puducherry.
(vii) The Secretary to Government
. . Member
(Science and Technology),
Puducherry.
1583
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LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(viii) The Secretary to Government
. . Member
(Town and Country Planning),
Puducherry.
(ix) The Secretary to Government (Revenue),
. . Member
Puducherry.
(x) The Secretary to Government
. . Member
(Fire service), Puducherry.
(xi) The Managing Director,
. . Member
PIPDIC, Puducherry.
(xii) The Director
. . Member-
(Industries and Commmerce),
Secretary.
Puducherry.
3.1.3. Periodicity of meetings: High Level Committee shall
convene at least once in six months for expeditious development of the
CGD network and otherwise as per need.
3.1.4. Key Functions: The committee shall decide measures
which may, inter alia include the following:
3.1.4.1. Development of CGD infrastructure in all parts of the
Union territory of Puducherry in alignment with various
Government initiatives.
3.1.4.2. Encouraging the usage of PNG and CNG through the
conversion for city buses to CNG and long-distance
buses to CNG/LNG.
3.1.4.3. Promote usage of PNG and CNG by all segments of
consumers including Industrial and Commercial as a
preferred fuel.
3.1.4.4. Addressing the issues related to safe CGD operations
and all interfaces with the Government of Puducherry
arising out of safe operations and emergency
management.
3.1.4.5. To deal with issues related to land rates, utility and
infrastructure status, ease of rolling out CGD business
in line with that of other Utility programs such as
telecom, electricity, water, etc.,
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LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
3.1.4.6. To coordinate with all the stakeholders for faster
implementation of the Policy objectives set out here.
3.1.4.7. To implement suitable modification in Building Plan
Rules for providing gas pipe line infrastructure in
residential and commercial buildings at the architectural
design stage itself to facilitate readiness of the
buildings for “Gas-In” at the end of their construction.
3.1.4.8. To develop suitable policy guidelines/framework for
earmarking/allotment of feasible Government lands to
accommodate the District Regulating System (DRS) and
Pressure Regulating System (PRS) for setting up of CNG
stations, etc., by the CGD entities.
3.2. Nodal Agency for GCD implementation:
3.2.1. To expedite the implementation of “Petroleum and Natural
Gas pipeline projects and CGD network projects (CGD)” in the
Union territory of Puducherry, the Directorate of Industries and
Commerce, Puducherry, shall act as the Nodal Agency for all such
assigned projects.
3.2.2. Periodicity of meetings : In order to achieve expeditious
implementation of CGD projects at all Geographical Areas (GA)
covering the four regions of this Union Territory, review meetings
shall be convened under the Chairmanship of the Secretary to
Government (Industries and Commerce), Puducherry, once in three
months or on need basis, along with Nodal Officers of all related
line Departments and District Collectors/Regional Administrators.
The representatives from each CGD entity shall also be invited for
the above said review meetings.
3.2.3. Key functions: The Nodal Agency shall conduct regular
coordination meetings and follow-up with line Departments
concerned and CGD entities for facilitating timely issuance of
permissions/clearances and for allotment of feasible Government
land parcels for establishing DRS/PRS and SRS for faster
1585
PART–II]
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
implementation of CGD network by CGD entities. The Nodal
Agency will suggest suitable measures which may, inter alia
include the following:
3.2.3.1. Coordination with the District/Region Level Monitoring
Committee (DLMC) to ensure the issuance of clearances
to the CGD entities through the single window system.
3.2.3.2. Each of the concerned Departments shall update the
status of issuance of permission/clearance for CGD
projects, including pending clarifications/details from
CGD entities to the Nodal agency in order to ensure
compliance with the timelines for the issuance of
permissions/clearance and also shall submit the details
to State Level Committee.
3.2.3.3. All the matters relating to further suggestions received
for improvement by the line Departments for
incorporation in the Policy.
3.3. District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) for CGD
development
3.3.1. The District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) shall
be constituted under the Chairmanship of the District Collector/
Regional Administrator with the following as Members:
3.3.1.1. The
Senior
Superintendent
of
Police
(Senior
Superintendent of Police/Superintendent of Police) of
concerned District/Region.
3.3.1.2. The Chief/Superintending/Executive Engineer, Public
Works Department of concerned District/Region.
3.3.1.3. The Commissioner of Municipality/Commune of
concerned District/Region.
3.3.1.4. The Director/Deputy Director of the Departments at the
District/Region level.
3.3.1.5. The Member-Secretary/Officer Incharge of the Puducherry
Pollution Control Committee.
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LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
3.3.1.6. The Regional Transport Officer of concerned District/
Region.
3.3.1.7. Other senior officials from concerned line Department
and the representative of CGD entities operating in the
District shall also be invited to the review meetings.
3.3.1.8. The District Collector shall designate Revenue Officer/
Tahsildar/Deputy Tahsildar as the Nodal Officer of the
DLMC who shall function as the Member-Secretary of
DLMC.
3.3.2. Periodicity of meetings: The District Level Monitoring
Committee shall be convened once in 3 months or more frequently
whenever needed, during the implementation of the project. The
status update on the review meeting shall be submitted to the
Nodal Agency, i.e., Directorate of Industries and Commerce,
Puducherry.
3.3.3. Key Functions: The DLMC, headed by the District
Collector/Regional Administrator concerned, will coordinate with
the line Departments and monitor the progress of CGD works
implemented in their District/Region and shall update the status
to the State Nodal Agency periodically. The key functions include:
3.3.3.1. To facilitate allotment of feasible Government land
parcels to the CGD entities for establishing DRS/PRS/
SRS stations and CNG/LNG stations including the
issuance of the enter-upon permissions as per
prevailing Government norms.
3.3.3.2. To facilitate the provision of details of Government
Lands
under
various
categories
available
for
consideration in the pipeline alignment submitted by
the CGD entities.
3.3.3.3. To facilitate the issuance of permissions/clearances and
NOCs related to establishing LCNG/CNG stations and
laying pipelines in a time-bound manner.
3.3.3.4. Standardizing permission issuance mechanisms with
timelines, issuance of “In principle approvals” to
facilitate immediate commencement of field activities,
1587
PART–II]
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
approval of work execution methodology as per site
condition, levying of applicable charges, for issuing
NOC, etc., from CGD entities for laying distribution steel
pipelines, MDPE pipelines, Last Mile Connectivity
(LMC) along/across various categories of roads and
other utilities to facilitate implementation of CGD
infrastructure in a time-bound manner.
3.3.3.5. DLMC shall provide a platform to the CGD entities to
appeal against the decision of the permission issuing
authority for establishing the CGD network.
3.3.3.6. To address the issues related to the seamless execution
of CGD field works by CGD entities at different stretches
in Towns/Cities/Rural area.
3.3.3.7. To facilitate the issuance of requisite additional
operational guidelines as and when felt necessary, to
ensure uninterrupted work execution by the CGD
entities.
3.3.3.8. To facilitate the provision of details covering various
aspects viz. future road expansion, co-existence with
other utilities, period of pipeline laying and public
safety, etc., in consultation with road-owning
authorities concerned and as per synchronisation of
work envisaged under PM_Gati Shakti Framework.
3.3.3.9. To deal with matters related to the adoption of all safety
norms/measures by the CGD entities during the
execution of pipeline laying works at various stretches,
preferably road cutting and restoration work. In case,
any suitable manpower required by the District
Administration for such supervision, the CGD entities
shall assist in providing manpower at their cost.
3.3.3.10. Ensuring submission of ERDMP (Emergency Response
Disaster Management Plan) by the CGD entities.
1588
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
3.4. Authorities who can issue permissions:
Sl.
Details of permission
Permission issuing Authorities/
No.
Nodal officers
(1)
(2)
(3)
1
Laying of pipelines along and
across National Highways -
cutting
and
restoration
of
Roads.
2
Laying of pipelines along and
across State Highways/Major
District
Road-cutting
and
restoration of Roads.
3
Laying of pipelines along and
across Municipality/Commune
Panchayat Roads/ Gram Panchayat
Roads/Village
Roads/other
Road-cutting and restoration of
Roads.
4
Laying of pipelines along and
across water bodies - cutting
and restoration of Roads.
NHAI
Estate Officer/Executive Engineer,
Public
Works
Department,
Puducherry/Karaikal/Mahe/
Yanam Regions after obtaining
in-prinicple approval of Chief
Engineer, Public Works Department,
Puducherry.
Concerned Estate Officers of
Public Works Department will be
the Executive Engineers of
National Highways Division/
Buildings and Roads (Central)
Division/ Buildings and Roads
(North) Division/ Buildings and
Roads (South) Division in
Puducherry,
Buildings
and
Roads Division in Karaikal/
Mahe/Yanam regions.
Commissioner of concerned
M u n i c i p a l i t y / C o m m u n e
Panchayat.
Concerned Estate Officers of
Public Works Department will be
Executive Engineers of Irrigation
1589
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LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
(1)
(2)
(3)
5
Laying of pipelines along and
across
Government
land
(puramboke land) - cutting and
restoration of Roads.
6
Laying of pipelines along and
across lands owned by PIPDIC
and
other-
cutting
and
restoration of Roads.
7
Laying of pipelines along and
across Railways - cutting and
restoration of lands.
8
Laying of pipelines along and
across various utilities during
cutting
and
restoration
of
Roads.
9
Laying of pipelines along and
across city water and sewage
networks
while
executing
cutting
and
restoration
of
Roads.
10
Prior to laying intimation and
approval for work execution.
11
Allocation of Government land
for setting up DRS/CGS/LCNG/
DCS/SRS and issue of NOC for
setting up CGS and LCNG
facilities.
12
Approval
for
retrofitter
agencies.
Division in Puducherry/Irrigation
and Public Health Division in
Karaikal/Mahe/Yanam regions.
District
Collector / Regional
Administrator (in case of Yanam
and Mahe region).
Managing Director, PIPDIC and
any other agencies responsible
for maintaining public roads/
water courses, etc.
Railways
Consent from concerned Utility
owning agencies.
Consent from concerned Utility
owning agencies.
Urban Local Bodies, Fire Service
and Traffic Police, Electricity,
Telecommunication.
District Collector, Puducherry/
Karaikal District.
Regional Administrator, Mahe/
Yanam region.
T r a n s p o r t
C o m m i s s i o n e r /
Regional Transport Officer.
1590
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
3.4.1. Though the above list of various permissions required
for establishing the CGD network and the permission issuing
authorities concerned are exhaustive, this CGD Policy is applicable
for other road/land/utilities owning Agencies concerned, whose
names are not mentioned above, but, involved in this permission
issuing process.
3.4.2. As the prescribed format for issuing permission vary from
case-to-case, based on the type of utilities along which the
pipelines are laid, the concerned agencies shall issue the
permission as per applicable format utilized by them in other cases,
along with applicable terms and conditions, so as to ensure timely
issuance of permission and also to ensure the quality of work
executed by the CGD entities as per the Guidelines issued to them
in a safe manner, without causing any inconvenience to the general
public.
3.5. Standardisation of Permission issuance mechanisms
3.5.1. CGD Infrastructure-Authorised Implementing Agencies:
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas (MoPNG), Government
of India has authorized the following entities to lay, build, operate
or expand city or local Natural Gas Distribution Networks in the
following 4 Geographical areas in the Union territory of
Puducherry.
Sl.
Geographical
Authorized Entity
No.
Area (GA)
(1)
(2)
(3)
1
Puducherry
East Coast Natural Gas Distribution Private Limited
2
Karaikal
Torrent Gas Private Limited
3
Mahe
Indian Oil-Adani Gas Private Limited
4
Yanam
HCG Yanam Private Limited
3.5.2. The Government of Puducherry finds it expedient and
essential to formulate uniform Policy/Guidelines elaborating
financial mechanisms, institutional mechanisms for faster
permissions/approvals, technical parameters of trenching and
restoration and liabilities of parties, etc., for timely execution of
1591
PART–II]
LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
CGD projects in the public interest. Apart from the above targets
vis-a-vis CGD entities, this Policy applies to all further City Gas
Distribution GD projects/entities also awarded through PNGRB.
3.5.3. The enforceability of permissions granted is restricted to
the extent of provisions and scope of services defined in the licence
agreement with PNGRB executed by CGD entities.
3.5.4. Subject to the Guidelines of PNGRB the CGD entities shall
not claim any exclusive right on the RoW (Right of Way) on which
the CGD network is established and subsequent user agencies shall
be permitted to use the RoW, subject to the technical requirement
being fulfilled.
3.5.5. The Directorate of Information Technology, Puducherry
has notified an Order vide G.O. Ms. No. 2/DIT/2021/2242, dated
22-02-2021, wherein, the existing Policy has been amended in order
to be in alignment with the provisions contained in the Indian
Telegraph Right of Way Rules, 2016. The Clause No. 3(i) of the
abovesaid Government Order states that “No other fees/charges
shall be levied by the respective authorities other than those
prescribed in the Indian Telegraph Right of Way Rules, 2016 while
giving permission for establishment of telecom infrastructure”. The
CGD Policy adopts the above said clause in terms of charges to
the CGD entities in establishing underground Gas Pipelines.
Accordingly, in adoption of the Indian Telegraph Right of Way
Rules, 2016, the CGD entities shall be charged one thousand rupees
per kilometer for establishing underground Gas Pipelines as
Administrative Expenses to be paid to the respective Authorities
concerned.
3.5.6. Every application submitted by the CGD entities shall be
supported with the following documents to expedite the permission
issuance process by the Departments concerned:
3.5.6.1. Detailed description of route and location details for the
distribution pipeline alignments.
3.5.6.2. Work execution plan/phasing of the plan for
uninterrupted work execution.
3.5.6.3. Details on the proposed methodology section-wise/
area-wise taking local factors into consideration.
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3.5.6.4. Submission of alternate route plan in case of fouling
with existing above or underground utilities recorded
during the initial survey stage itself.
3.5.6.5. Requisite undertakings for protection of existing
utilities and undertakings as sought by the concerned
authorities for according the “In principle approval”.
3.5.6.6. Alignment maps and trench cross section/bell hole
details, etc.
3.5.6.7. Surface-wise length of road cutting proposed and
number of crossings, etc.
3.5.6.8. Safety precautionary measures envisaged for adoption
during execution of the work at the site.
3.5.7. High and Medium pressure steel pipelines will be laid
predominantly along State Highways/MDR/Main city roads and
other roads under Municipalities/Commune Panchayats, etc. The
medium and low pressure MDPE pipeline will be laid predominantly
in all by-lanes in addition to main roads as a last mile delivery point
by the CGD entities.
3.5.8. After careful consideration, the Government of Puducherry
hereby issues the following guidelines/instructions in regard to
uniform restoration charges based on the methodology proposed
to be adopted by CGD entities as per the permission issued by
the authorities concerned in line with the prevailing site conditions
and safety requirements:
3.5.8.1. Detailed CGD network implementation proposal shall be
submitted by CGD entities in advance to the District
Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC) comprising:
3.5.8.1.1. Route maps for the distribution pipelines alignment.
3.5.8.1.2. Year-wise MWP (Minimum Work Program).
3.5.8.1.3. Methodology (Open cut/HDD) proposed to be
adopted at various stretches.
3.5.8.1.4. Safety measures envisaged at different stages
starting from material construction to connection at
the consumer end.
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3.5.8.1.5. Information on the number of land parcels with
location and extent details for establishing DRS/
PRS/SV/CNG/LCNG stations shall be initially
surveyed by the CGD entities with the Departments
concerned prior to joint inspection and process of
applications by the Departments concerned.
3.5.8.2. CGD entities shall submit Application Forms in original
along with requisite details to the concerned District
Level Monitoring Committees and Departments/
Agencies concerned of Government of Puducherry for
steel and MDPE pipeline network along with the
methodology of laying of pipelines and drawings for
various stretches as per prevailing site conditions
facilitating speedy scrutiny of applications and issuance
of “In principle” approval for early commencement of
work.
3.5.8.3. Steel and MDPE pipeline laying methodology and
applicable charges levying mechanism:
3.5.8.3.1. The Choice of choosing a methodology for laying
the steel and MDPE pipelines shall be with the CGD
entities concerned except when the roads are
proposed to be laid/relaid by the road owning
authorities during that year as part of their annual
work plan. The CGD entities shall adopt ‘Self Dig
and Restoration method’.
3.5.8.3.2. In case of “Self-Dig and restoration” by the CGD
entity based on prevailing site conditions, the CGD
entities, at their risk and cost shall restore the roads
as per the technical specification specified by the
permission Issuing Authority. In this case, the CGD
entity shall also submit the security deposit for
12 months in the form of a Bank Guarantee @ 100%
of the total restoration charges calculated on the
basis of the cost per square metre rate fixed by the
Government of Puducherry for corresponding
categories of roads before the commencement of the
work. The Bank Guarantee shall be released on
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issuance of NOC for satisfactory completion of road
restoration works from concern road owning
authority and on submission of a new Bank
Guarantee equal to 10% of the abovesaid Bank
Guarantee as Performance Bank Guarantee towards
the defect liability period of 12 months, which shall
be from the date of completion of work at the site
to the satisfaction of the concerned road owning
authority. During the defect liability period, if, any
damages occur due to faulty restoration, the CGD
entities shall restore the same at their own cost. The
defect liability period shall cease if, any work is
carried out in the same stretch by other
Departments/Local Bodies/Agencies, etc., and the
Performance Bank Guarantee shall be released
immediately.
3.5.8.3.3. For laying the Steel/MDPE pipeline network through
HDD (Horizontal Directional Drilling) trenchless
method, the cost of restoration charges shall be
limited to entry and exit pits on the actuals. The
restoration methodology shall be on “Self-dig and
restoration” basis by the CGD entity. The
restoration charges shall be limited to only entry
and exit pits calculated @ 1.5 times of pit sizes. The
CGD entity need not pay any upfront restoration
charges separately for the undisturbed road stretch,
but, shall have to submit the Security Deposit for
12 months in the form of a Bank Guarantee for 100%
of the total actual restoration charges calculated for
the restoration of entry and exit pits on the basis
of cost per square metre rate incurred for meeting
the technical specifications as per the permission
order before commencement of work. The basic
conditions that necessitate the adoption of the
trenchless method in various segments shall be
issued by the Road owning authorities.
3.5.8.3.4. The road cut restoration charges are as fixed by the
concerned Department as per Puducherry Schedule
of Rates (PSR). As the charges are on a fixed basis,
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no further additional charges and taxes are leviable
by the line Departments. The road-owning authorities
may revise the restoration charges as per the
revision of rates in latest PSR.
3.5.8.3.5. The unit of measurement for restoration charges
shall be calculated for the area of the road in square
meter basis only.
3.5.8.3.6. During the monsoon period the CGD entities shall
not carry out Open Trench method (more than
600 mm.) road cutting. However Trenchless and
Micro Trenching method (up to 600 mm.) road
cutting may be carried out, provided the CGD
entities shall take adequate measures towards safety
and security and shall restore the damaged position
immediately, if any and in case of extreme weather
also.
3.5.8.3.7. As part of PM-Gati Shakti, the CGD entities shall
also explore the possibilities of laying their CGD
pipeline network along with other works carried out
by line Departments simultaneously when their
works are in progress or utilizing their RoW (Right
of Way) stretches with proper planning and
coordination with the line Departments concerned
in order to eliminate duplication of works and ease
of doing the work execution with the least
inconvenience to the common public.
3.5.8.3.8. The restoration through self-dig and restoration by
the CGD entities on roads under various
Departments including State Highways, Public
Works Department Roads, Municipality/Commune
Panchayat roads, etc., shall be allowed to perform
the self-dig and restoration upon submission of
100% BG.
3.5.8.3.9. The self-dig and restoration modalities of roads
shall be jointly discussed and executed in close
coordination
with
concerned
road
owning
authorities and the CGD entities.
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3.5.8.3.10. The CGD entities apart from executing the self-dig
and restoration works longitudinally along the
roads, shall also execute the stretches where the
domestic pipelines are also proposed to be laid to
the residences under self-dig and restoration
mechanism or trenchless methodology basis as per
prevailing site conditions.
3.5.8.3.11. The CGD entities apart from executing the trench
works limited to a width of 600 mm. approximately,
shall execute actual restoration of the blacktop
overlapping with the undisturbed stretches of roads
as well and measurement shall be undertaken
accordingly for arriving at actual restoration
charges. Moreover, the Departments concerned
shall extend their assistance for the supervision of
works on the blacktop surface based on the request
from the CGD entities.
3.5.8.3.12. The HDD and the restoration work shall be done
by the CGD entities only under the supervision of
the concerned authority and there shall not be any
damages caused to the utilities provided in the said
roads.
3.6. Protection of existing above and underground utilities
3.6.1. It is the responsibility of all CGD entities to coordinate
and collect the route map and associated details of underground
utilities/essential service water lines, sewerage systems,
telecommunication lines, other pipelines and electricity supply
lines, etc., along with site supervision required by CGD entity prior
to commencement of work. Also, it is the responsibility of the CGD
entity to intimate the concerned supervisory Authority/Department
of such utilities concerned before undertaking the digging work.
3.6.2. It is the responsibility of all CGD entities to submit the
details of the work execution plan along with the route map and
associated details of all the underground utilities/essential services
like water lines, sewage systems, telecommunication lines, other
pipelines and electricity supply lines, etc., to the DLMC in
advance so as to facilitate the line Department concerned to assess
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their existing underground utilities and advice the level of
protection to be taken by CGD entities during the execution of the
fieldwork.
3.6.3. The CGD entity shall ensure the protection of existing
above-ground and underground utilities. Necessary precautions
are to be taken by the CGD entity for safeguarding and maintaining
all other existing utilities falling in the pipeline alignment including
to make good in case of any damage within 24 hours at their own
risk and cost. It shall be the responsibility of the CGD entity to
coordinate with other related agencies concerned whose utilities
are falling in the pipeline alignment. The CGD entity shall indemnify
the Department concerned by all means against damage to already
existing cables/underground installations/utilities/facilities, etc.,
during the execution of the work at the site.
3.6.4. The CGD entities shall carry out the works without
interrupting the traffic and causing inconvenience to the general
public and prior intimation shall be given to all the authorities
concerned in advance before the commencement of the work at the
site.
3.6.5. The CGD entity shall ensure strict adherence to all safety
guidelines, special terms and conditions apart from general
conditions issued along with permission from the Departments
concerned. All precautionary measures, such as providing sign
boards, warning tapes, fencing, lights, etc., shall be ensured at the
sites by the CGD entity to prevent any accidents or near-miss
incidents to pedestrians and vehicular traffic.
3.6.6. The minimum allowable depth of cover for CGD Steel
Pipeline:
(as per PNRGB Guidelines)
Sl.
Details of Location
Minimum cover
No.
of depth (in meters)
(1)
(2)
(3)
1
Normal/Rocky terrain
1.0
2
Minor/Unlined canal/nala crossings, tidal
1.5
areas and other water courses.
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(1)
(2)
(3)
3
Major river crossings
2.5
4
Rivers with Rocky bed
1.5
5
Drainage ditches at roadways and rail loads
1.0
6
Rocky areas
1.0
7
Cased/uncased road crossing
1.2
8
Cased railroad crossing
1.7
Notes:
1. Cover shall be measured from the top of the coated pipe to the top
of the undisturbed surface of the soil or the top of the graded
working strip, whichever is lower. The fill material in the working
strip shall not be considered in the depth of cover.
2. For River/Watercourses that are prone to scour and/or erosion, the
specified cover shall be measured from the expected lowest bed
profile after scouring/erosion. Where, scour level cannot be
established, an additional cover of minimum 1 meter shall be
provided from the existing bed of the river/watercourse.
3. The cover shall be measured from the top of road or top of rail, as
the case may be. Whenever the above provisions of cover cannot
be provided due to site constraints, additional protection in form of
casing/concreting, etc., shall be provided.
4. Clearance and casing requirements for buried steel pipelines and
mains and clearance between pipelines or mains and other
underground structures shall be in strict compliance with the
corresponding clauses stipulated in PNGRB Notifications, dated
27-08-2008 and its latest amendments G.S.R. 612(E).
3.7. Standard
Operating
Procedure
(SOP)
for
the
accommodation of City Gaz Distribution network along and across
roads maintained by various Departments
3.7.1. Procedure for processing application for granting
permission for use of Right of Way (RoW):
3.7.1.1. The CGD entity shall make application to the Road
Owning authority for the Right of Way (RoW).
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3.7.1.2. The following details and documents must be submitted
with the application:
3.7.1.2.1. Name of the road
3.7.1.2.2. Division of the road
3.7.1.2.3. Type: Road/Footpath/CC road/Berms/Earthern Portion.
3.7.1.2.4. Length, Width and Depth of the road cut required.
3.7.1.2.5. Nature of the road cut (open/trenchless technology).
3.7.1.2.6. Sketch and location of the road where, the cut has
to be made.
3.7.1.2.7. Self-restoration/Departmental restoration.
3.7.1.3. After a joint field survey, the concerned line Department
shall issue permission to the respective utility service
provider with the conditions imposed by the
Department to ensure a safe and uninterrupted flow of
traffic. The utility service provider shall be designated
as a ‘Licensee’ for the purpose of this project and will
be authorized to install and operate utility services
within the RoW. However, utility services shall be
made operational by the Licensee only after an NOC
(No Objection Certificate) to the effect is issued by the
Department concerned.
3.7.2. Laying of Utility Services:
3.7.2.1. Laying of Utility Services along the Roads: The Utility
services shall be located, beyond the toe line of the
embarkment and drains, as close to the extreme edge of
the road as possible.
3.7.2.1.1. Towards this, the top of the utility services shall
be as per the PNGRB norms.
3.7.2.1.2. No utility service charges shall be laid over existing
culverts and bridges, except through the utility
ducts where such provision exists. In case of
absence of such provisions, the Licensee shall make
his own arrangements for the crossing of cross
drainage structures, rivers, etc., below the bed.
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3.7.2.1.3. In exceptional cases, where RoW is restricted the
utility services can be allowed beneath the
carriageway (BT Surface), subject to the conditions
as per IRC and PNGRB norms, which will be
designed to carry traffic on top. In such cases, it
also needs to be ensured that maintenance of the
utility services shall not interfere with the safe and
smooth flow of traffic. The cost of operation and
maintenance will have to be borne by the Licensee.
3.7.2.2. Laying of Utility Services across the Roads:
3.7.2.2.1. The utility services shall be permitted to cross the
Roads preferably using Trenchless technology
(Horizontal drilling method). The casing/conduit
pipe should be minimum extended from drain to
drain in cuts, toe of slope to toe of slope in the fills
and shall be designed in accordance with the
provision of IRC and executed following the
Specifications of the MoRTH.
3.7.2.2.2. Existing drainage structures shall not be allowed to
carry the lines across. The utility services shall
cross the Roads preferably on a line normal to it or
as nearly so as practicable.
3.7.2.2.3. The casing/conduit pipe may be installed under the
road embankment either by boring or digging a
trench installation by the boring method preferably.
3.7.2.2.4. In the case of trenching, the sides of the trench
should be done as nearly vertical as possible. The
trench width should be at least 300 mm. wider (but
not more than 600 mm. wider) than the outer
diameter of the utility pipe. Filling of the trench
shall conform to the specifications contained
here-in-below or as supplied by the road owning
Authority:
3.7.2.2.4.1. The bedding shall be to a depth not less than
300 mm. It shall consist of granular material, free
of lumps, clods and cobbles, and graded to yield
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a firm surface without a sudden change in the
bearing value. Unsuitable soil and rock edges
should be excavated and replaced by selected
material.
3.7.2.2.4.2. The backfill shall be completed in two stages
(1) Side-fill to the level of the top of the pipe
(2) Overfill to the bottom of the road crust.
3.7.2.2.4.3. The side fill shall consist of granular material laid
in 150 mm. Layers each consolidated by
mechanical tramping and controlled addition of
moisture to 95% of the modified Proctor’s
density. Overfill shall be compacted to the same
density as the material that had been removed.
3.7.2.2.4.4. The road crust shall be built to the same
strength as the existing crust on either side of
the trench or to the thickness and specifications
stipulated by the road owing Authority.
3.7.2.2.4.5. When utilities are allowed aboveground, the
horizontal and vertical clearance in accordance
with the PNGRB Guidelines shall be maintained.
3.7.3. Restoration Methods
3.7.3.1. Self-Restoration Methods : The following methodology
is to be adopted for Self-restoration:
3.7.3.1.1. Self-Dig and restoration mechanism is carried out
at the risk and cost of the utility entities by meeting
the technical specification specified by the
permission Issuing Authority.
3.7.3.1.2. The utility entities should submit the security
deposit for 12 months in the form of a Bank
Guarantee at 100% of the total restoration charges.
3.7.3.1.3. Restoration shall be carried out under the
supervision of the Departmental officials to restore
it to the original condition.
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3.7.3.1.4. If, the Licensee fails to comply with any condition
to the reasonable satisfaction of the Authority, the
same shall be executed by the Authority at the cost
and risk of the Licensee.
3.7.3.1.5. Grant of Licence is subject to the Licensee
satisfying (a) minimum disruption of traffic and (b)
least damage to the road.
3.7.3.1.6. As far as possible, the Licensee should avoid
cutting of the road for crossing Highway, and other
roads and try to carry out the work by trenchless
technology. In case any damage is caused to the
road pavement in this process, the Licensee shall
restore the road to its original condition at its cost.
3.7.3.1.7. If, due to unavoidable reasons the road needs to
be cut for crossing or laying utility services, the
Licensee has to execute the work in a time-bound
manner at its cost, either by itself or through its
authorized representative in consultation with the
Authority as per predetermined time schedule and
quality standards.
3.7.3.1.8. All required restoration and maintenance work
subsequent to the laying of utility services shall be
required to be undertaken by the Licensee at its
cost either by itself or through its authorized
representative in consultation with the Authority as
per the predetermined time schedule and quality
standards. To process for the granting of permission
a Performance Bank Guarantee for an amount based
on per square metre with a validity of one year
initially, in the prescribed format (extendable if
required, till satisfactory completion of work) shall
have to be furnished by the utility service provider/
Licensee as security against the improper
restoration of ground in terms of filling/unsatisfactory
compaction damages caused to other underground
installations/utility services, interference, interruption,
disruption or failure caused thereof to any services, etc.
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3.7.3.1.9. In case, the Licensee fails to discharge the
obligation of making good of the excavated trench/
other restoration work, the Authority shall have
a right to make good the damages caused by the
excavation at the cost of the Licensee, and recover
the amount by forfeiture of the Bank Guarantee.
3.7.3.2. Departmental
Restoration : For
Departmental
restoration, the Utility entities should pay the upfront
restoration charges as fixed by the concerned
Departments as per existing PSR and there is no need
for Bank Guarantee.
3.7.4. Methodology for grant of Permission :
The Licensee shall apply in the prescribed format to the
DLMC and the concerned land owning Authorities for usage of
RoW for laying CGD Networks. On receipt of application from the
licensee :
3.7.4.1.1. Joint inspection shall be carried out to assess the
feasibility of the Self-Dig and restoration methodology.
3.7.4.1.2. Road Owning Department will issue the demand and
licensee shall submit the security deposit for 12 months
in the form of a Bank Guarantee @ 100% of the total
restoration charges calculated on the basis of the cost
per square meter rate fixed by the Government of
Puducherry for corresponding categories of roads
before the commencement of the work. The Bank
Guarantee shall be released on issuance of NOC for
satisfactory completion of road restoration works from
concern road owning Authority and on submission of
a new Bank Guarantee equal to 10% of the abovesaid
Bank Guarantee as Performance Bank Guarantee towards
the defect liability period of 12 months, which shall be
from the date of completion of work at the site to the
satisfaction of the concerned road owning Authority.
During the defect liability period, if, any damages occur
due to faulty restoration, the CGD entities shall restore
the same at their own cost. The defect liability period
shall cease if, any work is carried out in the same stretch
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by other Department/Local Bodies/Agencies, etc., and
the Performance Bank Guarantee shall be released
immediately.
3.7.4.1.3. The Work shall be carried out under the supervision
Road Owning Department Officials and on getting NOC,
the defect liability period of 12 months will commence.
3.7.4.1.4. Self-Dig and restoration methodology shall be carried
and as per the specified standards and specifications.
3.7.4.1.5. Self-Dig and restoration methodology is applicable on
roads under various Departments including State
Highways, Public Works Department Roads, Municipality/
Commune/Panchayat Roads, etc., as per the specified
standards and specifications.
3.7.5. The following Guidelines/norms shall be followed during
and after the execution of the road cuts :
Licensee to lay utility services after obtaining permission
subject to the following conditions, namely :
3.7.5.1. RoW Permissions are only enabling in nature. The
purpose of extending the way leave facility on the RoW
is not for enhancing the score of activity of a utility
service provider, either by content or by intent. Further,
enforceability of the permission so granted shall be
restricted only to the extent of provisions/scope of
activities for the purpose for which it is granted.
3.7.5.2. No Licensee shall claim exclusive right on the RoW and
any subsequent user will be permitted to use the RoW,
either above or below, or by the side of the utilities laid
by the first user, subject to technical requirements being
fulfilled. The decision of the Authority in relation to
fulfillment of technical requirements shall be final and
binding on all concerned parties. In case, any
disruption/damage is caused to any existing user by the
subsequent user, the Authority shall not be held
accountable or liable in any manner.
3.7.5.3. The Licensee shall be responsible for undertaking all
activities including but not limited to site identification,
survey, design, engineering, arranging finance, project
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management, obtaining regulatory approvals and
necessary clearances, supply of equipment, material,
construction, erection, testing and commissioning,
maintenance and operation and all other activities
essential or required for efficient functioning of their
own utility/industrial infrastructure facilities.
3.7.5.4. The utility services shall be laid at the edge of road.
In case of restricted width of RoW, which may be
adequate only to accommodate the carriageway, central
verge, shoulders, slopes of embankment, drains, other
road side furniture, etc., the utility services shall be laid
beyond the toe line of the embankments and clear of
the drain.
3.7.5.5. The Licensee shall make his/her own arrangement for
the crossing of cross drainage structures, rivers, etc.,
below the bed. In case, this is not feasible, the utility
services may be carried outside the railings/parapets
and the bridge superstructure. The fixing and
supporting arrangement with all details shall be required
to be approved in advance from the concerned
Administration. Additional cost on account of fixing and
supporting arrangement as assessed by the Authority
shall be payable by the Licensee.
3.7.5.6. The road crust shall be built to the same strength as
the existing crust on either side of the trench or to
thickness and specifications stipulated by the
Authority.
3.7.5.7. The Licensee shall ensure making good the excavated
trench for laying utility services by proper filling and
compaction, clearing debris/loose earth produced due
to excavation of trenching at least 50 m. away from the
edge of the right of way.
3.7.5.8. All work subsequent to the laying of the pipe shall be
required to be undertaken by the Licensee at its cost
either by itself or through its authorized representative
in consultation with the Authority as per the
predetermined time schedule and quality standards.
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3.7.5.9. In case of shifting of the utility services due to
improvement/widening of road or construction of
flyover/bridge the road owning Authority shall submit
the detailed proposal for shifting to the District Level
Monitoring Committee. Based on the recommendation
of the Committee, the Authority shall issue the notice
for shifting. The restoration of the road/land to its
original condition shall be at the own cost and risk of
the CGD entities.
3.7.5.10. The Licensee shall be responsible to ascertain from the
respective agency in coordination with Authority
regarding the location of other utilities/underground
installations/facilities, etc. The Licensee shall ensure the
safety and security of already existing underground
installations/utilities/facilities, etc., before commencement
of the excavation/using the existing utility ducts. The
Licensee shall indemnify against damages to already
existing underground installations/utilities/facilities, etc.
3.7.5.11. The Licensee shall be solely responsible/liable for full
compensation/indemnification of concerned Agency/
Aggrieved Authority for any direct, indirect, or
consequential damage caused to them/claims or
replacements sought for, at the cost and risk of the
Licensee. The concerned Agency in coordination with
Authority shall also have a right to make good such
damages/recover the claims by forfeiture of Bank
Guarantee.
3.7.5.12. The Licensee shall inform/give a notice to the agency
concerned designated by the Authority at least 15 days
in advance with the route details prior to digging
trenches for fresh or maintenance/repair works.
3.7.5.13. The extent of digging the trenches should be strictly
regulated so that utility services are laid and trenches
filled up before the start of the next stretch. Filling
should be completed to the reasonable satisfaction of
the officials concerned designated by the Authority.
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3.7.5.14. The Licensee shall indemnify the Agency concerned in
coordination with Authority, against all damages and
claims, if any, due to the digging of trenches for laying
pipes/ducts.
3.7.5.15. The Authority also has a right to terminate the
permission or to extend the period.
3.7.5.16. The Licensee shall not undertake any work of shifting,
repairs or alterations to the utility services without prior
written permission of the Authority.
3.7.5.17. The permission granted shall not in any way be deemed
to convey to the Licensees any ownership right or any
interest in route/road/highway, land/property, other
than what is herein expressly granted. No use of RoW
will be permitted for any purpose other than that
specified.
3.7.5.18. The utility services located in RoW/property shall be
deemed to have been constructed and continued only
by the consent and permission of the Authority so that
the right of the Licensee to the use thereof shall not
become absolute and indefeasible by lapse of time.
3.7.5.19. Three copies of ‘as laid drawings’ of utilities (hard and
soft copies) with GIS mapping of Gas pipeline laid (with
respect to the roads) and after restoration shall be
submitted to the Authority for verification and record
within a month of completion of works.
3.7.5.20. The utility services shall not be made operational by
the Licensee unless a NOC to the effect that the utility
services has been laid in accordance with the approved
specifications and drawings and the trenches have been
filled up to the reasonable satisfaction of the concerned
Agency in coordination with the Authority has been
obtained. Notwithstanding anything contained herein,
this permission may be cancelled at any time by
Authority for breach of any condition of the same and
the Licensee shall neither be entitled to any
compensation for any loss caused to it by such
cancellation, nor shall it be absolved from any liability
already incurred.
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3.7.5.21. The Licensee shall ensure adherence to relevant Indian
Standards and follow best industry practices, methods,
and standards for the purpose of ensuring safe, efficient
and economic design, construction, commissioning,
operation, repair and maintenance of any part of the
utility lines/industrial infrastructure facilities and which
practices, methods, and standards shall be adjusted as
necessary to take account of:
3.7.5.21.1. operation, repair, and maintenance guidelines given
by the manufacturers;
3.7.5.21.2. the requirements of Law;
3.7.5.21.3. the physical conditions at the Site, and;
3.7.5.21.4. the safety of operating personnel and human
beings.
3.7.5.22. The Licensee shall have to provide safety measures like
barricading, danger lighting, and other necessary
caution boards while executing the work.
3.7.5.23. While laying utility services, at least one lane of road
shall be kept open to traffic at all times. If, any traffic
diversion works are found necessary during the working
period, it shall be provided at the cost of Licensee.
3.7.5.24. Traffic Police should be informed in advance and
necessary permission has to be obtained from the traffic
point of view, wherever required. After getting Police
permission, the probable date of commencement and
completion date should be informed to the Authority.
3.7.5.25. If, chambers are constructed while laying of utilities in
the road, the chamber should be at the road level to
avoid accidents. It shall not be above or below road
level surface.
3.7.5.26. After the permission, if, the applicant fails to start the
work and complete within the permitted period, the
permission granted will automatically get cancelled. The
work can be commenced only after revalidation of the
permission by the Competent Authority.
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3.7.5.27. Notwithstanding this, the Licensee shall be liable to pay
full compensation to the aggrieved Authority/its
designated Agency for any damage sustained by them
by reason of the exercise of the RoW facility.
3.7.5.28. Within 24 hours of completion, the service Departments/
service Providers have to inform the Authority.
3.7.5.29. After the completion of road cut work, the photos and
completion certificate have to be submitted to the
Authority by CGD entity.
3.8. Timelines for issuance of permissions/clearances:
3.8.1. Scrutiny of applications submitted by the CGD entities
for seeking clarifications, joint inspection, and additional inputs
if any, shall be done within 10 days of receipt of the application
with requisite details by the Department concerned.
3.8.2. The Department concerned shall ensure issuance of
“In principle approval” for early work commencement within 15
days of receipt of the application with details, and taking requisite
undertakings from CGD entities pending final permission. The final
permission shall be accorded within 30 days from receipt of the
application and payment of the applicable restoration charges or
Bank Guarantee from the CGD entities.
3.8.3. Adequate time-period for work execution shall be given
considering the quantum of works involved, the length of
stretches, and the criticality of the site conditions involved. Needful
extension of the work execution time-period without any penalty
may be given on a case-to-case basis. The decision of the Officer-
in-charge of the Department concerned is final and binding on the
CGD entities.
3.8.4. Upon satisfactory completion of the field works in
compliance with the terms and conditions and specifications of the
permission order, NOC may be issued to entities within 10 days of
receipt of complete details and joint inspection by the Competent
Authority.
3.8.5. It shall be obligatory upon the CGD entities to make the
road motorable - good and safe for movement within 48 hours after
related road works are completed and the full restoration of the
road shall be completed within 30 days of the work completed to
the reasonable satisfaction of the authority concerned.
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3.9. Alienation/Lease of land parcel for CGD equipment (DRS/
PRS/SV/CNG/LCNG/CGS station) erection.
3.9.1. As a step towards facilitating early work commencement
for DRS/PRS/SV/CNG/LCNG stations in the Government lands
under the process of allotment/alienation, the District Authorities
shall exercise the option of issuance of the “enter upon permission”
for early commencement of work in the station by the CGD entities
within 15 days upon receipt of requisite details and refundable
caution deposit of 10% of the total estimated cost of land in the
form of Bank Guarantee, which shall be refunded or adjusted at
the time of issuance of final allotment/alienation.
3.9.2. In consideration of the requirement of land to CGD entities
for installation of DRS (District Regulating Stations), PRS (Pressure
Regulating Stations), SV (Sectionalizing Valve) Stations, CNG/
LCNG/CGS and other safety-related systems, the concerned State
Department shall have the permissible sanction from Government
to lease feasible Government lands to CGD entities for up to 30
years. The annual lease rent in such cases shall be payable by the
CGD entities as per the new lease policy of the Government.
4. CNG KIT Approval
4.1. Fixing of the CNG Kits into a vehicle is predominantly done
in two ways namely, factory-fitted kits for new vehicles by Vehicle
manufacturers/OEMs and retrofitted kits fitted in the existing vehicles
currently utilizing gasoline fuel.
4.2. For the retrofitted vehicles, all vehicles shall have a CNG
Kit and a cylinder fitted which is type approved in accordance with the
Guidelines of the Ministry of Surface Transport, Government of India,
and installed and tested by a retrofitter Agency authorized by the
Transport Commissioner/Regional Transport Office (RTO) of this Union
Territory and get issued a fitness certificate for its suitability for CNG
use. A vehicle once retrofitted also would require an RTO approval/
endorsement on the Registration document before it is permitted to ply
on the roads. These certificates are essential to be shown to the CNG
Station Operator before each refill of the cylinder. The cylinder with
stainless steel valves and connected facilities fitted in the vehicle shall
be in accordance with Gas Cylinder Rules. These cylinders should be
subjected to a hydro test at least once every three years.
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4.3. It is essential that qualified people/agencies duly trained
by the CNG kit manufacturers shall have to be deployed sufficiently in
the Union territory of Puducherry. The CNG kit and its accessories viz.,
stainless steel safety valve and pipes shall be tested by the Automotive
Research Association of India (ARAI)/International Centre for
Automotive Technology (ICAT) and other testing agencies for new
vehicles fitted along with these CNG kits. For retrofitting the CNG Kit,
agencies with expertise need to be developed in the Union Territory for
which needful initiatives shall come from the CGD entities. Necessary
amendments in “The Central Motor Vehicles Rules” are being framed
through the Standing Technical Committee formed under the Ministry
of Surface Transport for registering agencies with expertise in monitoring
the installation of CNG kits. Sufficient qualified CNG kit manufacturing
and retrofit agencies shall also be developed by the CGD entities in
converting diesel vehicles/buses.
4.4. Effective inspection system shall be introduced, as already
a large number of CNG Buses are currently operating in this country
and numerous such buses are expected to be converted in the next few
years due to the stringent statutory regulations and also a rapid
proliferation of CNG by CGD entities to meet the minimum work program
as prescribed by PNGRB. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
(MoRTH) is already in the process of issuing notifications for
expeditious authorization of conversion workshops.
4.5. The CGD entities shall collaborate and coordinate with CNG
Kit manufacturers, cylinder and fittings manufacturers and explore and
train sufficient retrofitter agencies area wise through the Training
Institutes developed under the guidance of the Government of
Puducherry. The issuance of type approval and RTO endorsement
shall be within 3 months from the date of issuance of permission for
usage of the CNG Kits.
5. Implementation of Safety Measures
5.1. Design of the transmission pipelines and associated
facilities involved in implementing the CGD network shall be in
accordance with PNGRB-T4S, ASME, ANSI, AGA, API, IGE/TD standards
and recommendations, etc., and supported by the relevant international
standards. The material specifications shall follow API, ASTM, ANSI,
AGA ASME IS, MSS-SP, NACE AND DIN standards or as specified
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[PART–II
by PNGRB and supported by the relevant International Standards.
Anticipated future development shall be taken into account for the
determination of the final location class.
5.2. The location of the pipeline should be indicated at suitable
intervals by using markers installed above ground at field boundaries,
at all the crossings, and wherever the direction of the Pipeline alignment
changes. These markers shall be installed after the mechanical
completion of works and prior to the precommissioning of the CGD
network in accordance with API RP 1109.
5.3. Suitable Cathodic Protection system, Odourisation system,
efficient maintenance practice for sub-transmissions, Primary steel
network pipelines, MDPE Pipeline networks, Pipeline Patrolling, Leakage
survey and establishment of Network control centres, etc., shall be in
place prior to full-fledged commissioning of the CGD network by the
CGD entities.
5.4. All CGD entities shall have an “emergency service group/
emergency response team” positioned at strategic locations. It is very
much an essential and critical requirement for all the CGD entities to
have a dedicated Emergency Response and Disaster Management Plan
(ERDMP) formulated through approved PNGRB Agencies and shall form
a part of the overall Disaster Management Plan under the Chairmanship
of the respective District Collector.
5.5. All the CGD entities shall have following location wise
contingency plan for their proposed CGD network implementation:
5.5.1. Third Party damage prevention plan covering pipeline
markers, dial before dig, creating safety awareness, effective
advertisement and training, etc.
5.5.2. Action Plan-Monsoon focused.
5.5.3. Developing effective leak detection system and carrying
out mobile leak detection surveys.
5.5.4. Action plan for periodical surveys on vegetation, pressure
drop, public building, and green house.
5.6. All the CGD entities to formulate an effective and efficient
“Asset Integrity Plan” with an Asset Integrity Management system and
Integrated Management Plan, etc., for their CGD networks to ensure the
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safety of the established CGD network to protect the personnel property,
public and environment through requisite provisions/resources for
prevention, detection and mitigation activities.
5.7. All the CGD entities shall ensure stage-wise pre Audit/
Inspection of their CGD network covering all existing and new CGD
networks including Sub-transmission pipelines, CGS, Distribution mains,
piping facilities downstream of inlet isolation valve of CGS (inclusive
of Primary, Secondary and Tertiary networks)including customer meter
for Commercial and Industrial customers up to the final isolation valve
including connecting hose to the Gas appliances for the domestic
customers as per applicable Statutory norms viz., T4S Audit, Oil Industry
Safety Directorate (OISD) audit, auditing/evaluation of Asset Integrity
Management system, and other provisions made as necessary including
statutory approvals from PESO Department.
5.8. The CGD entity shall take third party insurance policy
coverage for any kind of mishap/accidents occurred to General Public
in addition to the employees/workers involved in the CGD project.
6. Adoption of CNG/LNG as the preferred fuel
6.1. To promote the usage of Clean and Green fuel, CNG/LNG
in the transportation sector, the thrust shall be made to make CNG/LNG
a preferred transportation fuel in public transportation. The CGD entities
shall evolve suitable mechanisms in organizing the Public/Industries
awareness campaign in consultation with the District Authorities.
6.2. Needful guidelines shall be issued for the Transport
Department to encourage the possibilities of CNG/LNG buses while
purchasing new buses and retrofitting the present alternative fuel fleet
(which is viable), in order to actively promote the usage of the CNG/
LNG public transport in a phased manner, based on the CGD
infrastructure developed by concerned the CGD entities for the
respective GAs.
6.3. Needful guidelines will be issued to encourage the
possibilities of converting vehicles being utilized/engaged by the
Government Departments (Cars, Buses, Ambulances, Delivery Vans,
Goods Carriers, etc.,) to CNG vehicles in a phased manner, wherever the
CNG infrastructure is made available by the CGD entities.
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[PART–II
6.4. New industries along with its allied facilities shall be
encouraged to use Natural Gas instead of the liquid/solid fuels through
the Departments concerned based on the establishment of requisite CGD
infrastructure and ensuring uninterrupted gas supply to the industries
by the CGD entities concerned.
6.5. To encourage the adoption of Natural Gas as Green and
clean fuel by the Government Departments/Local Bodies/Concerned
Authorities, requisite guidelines shall be issued for wider usage of the
environment friendly Natural Gas by all the segments of consumers, i.e.,
residential, industrial and commercial establishments, based on the
establishment of the requisite CGD infrastructure, and ensuring the
uninterrupted gas supply to the industries by the CGD entities
concerned.
6.6. Applicable Policy Guidelines in this regard shall be issued
for the effective implementation of this fuel conversion process in
phased manner based on the readiness of the CGD infrastructure by the
CGD entities.
6.7. LNG has the potential to address persistent requirements
of a clean and environment-friendly fuel because of its low level of
harmful emissions. LNG is approximately 15% to 25% cheaper than diesel,
which will lead to savings in the operational cost for shipping companies
and fishing vessels. The State Level Committee shall make efforts to
facilitate the creation of LNG bunkering facility at appropriate places
under the conversion of fishing vessels to LNG by providing the
suitable incentives.
6.8. Conversion of Diesel Generator in Telecom Service Towers
in the Authorised area with Gas generators
Telecom towers are located all over the Union territory of
Puducherry and draw primary and back up energy from a myriad of
Conventional sources. With the implementation of CGD networks,
Government of Puducherry shall be bringing in appropriate rules/
regulations and initiate measures to facilitate the usage of Natural Gas
based generators by all telecom operators, especially in urban areas, for
an environment friendly alternative, at a lower cost. The State Level
Committee shall facilitate conversion of diesel sets to CNG generators
by bringing in appropriate rules/regulations. The CGD entities shall
submit the required details to facilitate the facility by furnishing the
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detailed mechanisms proposed for supply of natural gas to these
segments spread all over the areas. Upon receipt of the requisite
proposals from CGD entities, applicable Policy Guidelines in this regard,
shall be issued.
7. CBuD app : This Policy shall emphasis the usage of the Call
Before u Dig (CBuD) app developed by BISAG-N as stated below.
7.1. CBuD mobile app provides an interface for excavating
agencies/contractors to alert/inform owners of existing utility assets
about their upcoming excavation route.
7.2. The underground/utility asset owners such as electricity
cables, water pipe, gas pipe, etc., are to map their underline assets with
GIS coordinates on PM Gati Shakti portal.
7.3. All excavation agencies are mandated by the Government
of Puducherry to use this app.
8. Grievance Redressal Mechanism
8.1. The CGD entity should resolve all the complaints/issues
raised by the General Public/Authority/Other Public Utilities within
specified time period.
8.2. The complaint lodged shall be forwarded to the one
concerned CGD entity and the CGD entity shall address the same and
submit the compliance against, each complaint within seven (07) days
to the District Nodal Officer.
8.3. The District Nodal Officer shall review all the complaints/
grievances lodged by the public/authority/CGD entity on quarterly basis.
9. Overall Terms and Conditions
9.1. For clarification/resolution of interpretation of any term
and/or dispute relating to the function of any provisions under this
Policy shall have to be referred to the Department of Industries and
Commerce, Puducherry and the decision of the Department in this regard
shall be the final and binding on all.
9.2. No right or claim of any incentive/privileges under this
Policy shall be deemed to have been conferred merely on the ground of
the provision in the Policy. Implementation of various provisions
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LA GAZETTE DE L'ETAT
[PART–II
covering the incentives, concessions, etc., shall be subject to the issue
of detailed Guidelines/Statutory notifications, wherever necessary in
respect of each item by the Department concerned.
9.3. The Department shall reserve right to amend any provision
of the Policy with the approval of the Government, keeping in view of
the Guidelines issued by the Central Government/Government of
Puducherry from time to time.
10. Abbreviations
Sl. Abbreviations
Description
No.
(1)
(2)
(3)
1
AGA
American Gas Association
2
API
American Petroleum Institute
3
ANSI
American National Standard Institute
4
ARAI
Automotive Research Association of India
5
ASME
American Society of Mechanical Engineers
6
ASTM
American Society for Testing and Materials
7
CAGR
Cumulative Average Growth Rate
8
CBG
Compressed Bio Gas
9
CGD
City Gas Distribution
10
CGS
City Gas Station
11
CNG
Compressed Natural Gas
12
CSR
Corporate Social Responsibility
13
DCS
Decompressed Skid
14
DIN
Deutshces Institute for Nornung (German
Institute for Standardization)
15
DLMC
District Level Monitory Committee
16
DRS
District Regulating Station
17
ERDMP
Emergency Response Disaster Management Plan
18
GA
Geographical Area
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19
GoI
Government of India
20
HDD
Horizontal Directional Drilling
21
ICAT
International Centre for Automotive Technology
22
IGF
International Code of other Low Flashpoint Fuels
23
IS
Indian Standards
24
IIPC
Industries, Investment Promotion and Commerce
25
LCNG
Liquified Compressed Natural Gas
26
LNG
Liquified Natural Gas
27
MDPE
Medium Density Poly Ethylene
28
MDR
Major District Roads
29
MoEF & CC Ministry of Environmental Forest and Climate Change
30
MoPNG
Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
31
MoRTH
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
32
MoUD
Ministry of Urban Development
33
MRS
Metering Regulating System
34
MSS-SP
Manufacturers Standardization Society of Standard
Practise.
35
MWP
Minimum Work Programme
36
NHAI
National Highways Authority of India
37
NOC
No Objection Certificate
38
OEM
Original Equipment Manufacturer
39
OISD
Oil Industry Safety Directorate
40
PESO
Petroleum and Explosive Safety Organisation
41
PNG
Pipeline Natural Gas
42
PNGRB
Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board
43
PRS
Pressure Regulating Station
44
PSR
Puducherry Schedule of Rates
45
RTO
Regional Transport Officer
(1)
(2)
(3)
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[PART–II
46
SLA
Service Level Agreement
47
SV
Sectionalise Value
48
SR
Service Regulator
49
SOP
Standard Operating Procedure
50
WRO
Water Resource Organisation
(1)
(2)
(3)
online publication at “https://styandptg.py.gov.in”
Published by The Director, Government Press, Puducherry.