PNG project halted as MCC declines nod for civil works in Mysuru

MYSURU: Here is an example of how the red tapism in the bureaucracy can hinder the implementation of a futuristic project.
The ambitious direct-to- home Piped Natural Gas (PNG) project, launched in Mysuru on July 15, 2022, has been halted as the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) has declined permission for the civil works involving the pipeline laying over difference of opinion over the charge per meter.As a result, city residents are suffering.
It can be recalled that then MP Pratap Simmha had assured that the first phase of the PNG scheme will be completed by Dasara 2022. Over 23,000 city residents had registered for the PNG connection two years ago.
But, according to sources in the urban development department, only 800 houses have been given connection in the city till now, and for the last six months no house has been given connection as the works are totally stalled.
According to the sources, even though the state government directed the MCC to allow the implementation agency to take up the pipeline works for Rs 1 per meter and give an undertaking that the digged roads will be repaired by the company post works, the MCC is following the wait and watch game. The corporation wants the company to pay Rs 1,956 per meter. Due to this delay approach, the works are now totally stalled.
According to the sources, currently piped gas line project has been implemented only in parts of ward numbers 20, and 47. "PNG is the li- feline in all developed countries. It has a lot of advantages, including reduction in the cost, zero transportation costs and zero accidents. It is a central government project. The central government must initiate stern action against MCC officials for blocking such a national important project," said Sunanda Raghavendra, a homemaker from TK Layout.
MCC commissioner Ashaad Ur Rahman Shariff was not available for reaction even after repeated attempts to reach him.
Former mayor M Shivakumar said, piped gas line projects were implemented in all major cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, etc, three decades ago. "It is safe, and af- fordable. The MCC must al- low the company to resume work for Rs 1 per meter instead of delaying the project. The company can be asked to repair the roads it digs for the pipeline work," he said.
Corporation should be people-friendly, and ensure that world-class services are available for them, he said.