Kalyan: The routine maintenance and repair work of the main gas line at the CNG pump located in Ambernath has been urgently initiated by the Gas Authority of India. Consequently, the gas supply to CNG pumps in the surrounding areas is expected to be affected.
Mahanagar Gas, responsible for the operation of several CNG pumps in Kalyan, Ulhasnagar, Dombivli, and Ambernath regions, has announced the temporary closure of these pumps from March 7th to March 9th. This maintenance work necessitates the shutdown of these facilities until the following Saturday. However, Mahanagar Gas has assured motorists that alternative arrangements have been made to ensure minimal inconvenience.
Upon receiving notice of the impending closure, rickshaw drivers in the affected areas hurried to the Mahanagar Gas CNG pumps in Dombivli, Kalyan, Shilphata, Ulhasnagar, and Ambernath to avoid disruptions. Unfortunately, they were met with closure signs, compelling rickshaw drivers to rely on petrol for their vehicles during this period. The transition to petrol is not only inconvenient but also imposes additional expenses on drivers and passengers alike.
Rickshaw drivers, who predominantly use CNG as a more cost-effective fuel option, find themselves grappling with the sudden unavailability of gas. With petrol prices on the rise, this temporary shift poses financial challenges for drivers who transport passengers over extended periods.
The Gas Authority of India, which supplies gas to the Citygate station pump in Ambernath, has scheduled maintenance work from Thursday, March 7th, to Saturday, March 9th, causing disruptions in CNG supply to nearby pumps. In response, Mahanagar Gas has arranged for gas availability at 22 alternative CNG pumps across Thane district, including those operated by Indian Oil, Hindustan Petroleum, and private pump operators.
Despite the challenges posed by the closure of major CNG pumps, some pumps remain operational in the vicinity, including those in Khoni, Pagdyachapada, Dombivli, Shelar, Avachitpada, Qureshinagar, Chavindregaon, Valgaon, Narpoli, Mankoli, Kawad-Bhiwandi, Katai Naka, Kamba-Kalyan, Betwade, Vashi, Goveli, and Taloja Road.
In light of this situation, many rickshaw drivers from Dombivli and Kalyan have ventured to Bhiwandi in search of alternative gas sources. Despite the challenges posed by the temporary closure of major CNG pumps, motorists and authorities are working together to mitigate inconveniences and ensure smooth operations in the affected areas.