Petrol Dealers Association (PDA) declares halt to CNG sales commencing May 1

The PDA, located in Pune, has revealed the suspension of CNG sales at Torrent Gas-operated outlets in rural areas supplied via trucks in offline mode starting May 1, 2025, due to persistent irregular supply and lengthy daily outages extending up to six to eight hours. This recurring issue has led to frustration among service station operators as they contend with customers and extensive queues on a continual basis.

Dhruv Ruparel, president of PDA Pune, stated, “In spite of numerous complaints and follow-ups, Torrent Gas has been unable to rectify the problem, causing considerable inconvenience to consumers, particularly public transport vehicles, private users, and emergency services. The disruption has profoundly affected mobility and daily livelihoods within the region. ”

The PDA Pune emphasized that this decision was made in the broader interest of the public to underscore the neglect and prompt immediate corrective measures. The association has also requested urgent intervention from the district collector and other officials to ensure an uninterrupted CNG supply and avert further inconvenience to the populace.

However, the decision has not been well-received by the majority of CNG users. Rajesh Kulkarni, an auto-rickshaw driver from Talegaon, remarked, “This is going to complicate our lives further. We already endure lengthy queues every day, sometimes for up to two hours, only to discover that there is no gas available. Now, with this suspension, we are uncertain about where to go. Our earnings depend on our ability to keep the rickshaw operational, and without CNG, we are at a standstill. The government or gas company must intervene and ensure a dependable supply. We cannot sustain ourselves under these circumstances. ”

Conversely, Anita Bhalle, a resident of Chakan, expressed, “I transitioned to a CNG vehicle last year as it was more economical and environmentally friendly. However, with this kind of unreliable supply, it is turning into a nightmare. I have had to miss office meetings simply because I could not refuel promptly. If they are halting sales, they should at least offer alternative arrangements or timelines so that commuters like me can plan accordingly. It is truly disheartening. ”