More than two years after the arrival of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), very few have shown interest to establish CNG stations in the city, according to officials.
In 2013, when GAIL started supplying CNG to its first customer in the city, Toyota Kirloskar Auto Parts, hopes were high. Promises of CNG stations heralding a new era of reduced emissions were made by the then government.
Two years on, GAIL Gas, the joint venture project between the State government and GAIL, is yet to begin supplying gas to major customers, including Karnataka Power Corporation Limited. “Our target is to set up 36-odd stations in five years. Currently, BMTC has asked us to supply CNG and we are in the process of applying to local bodies for the permission to set up a mother station and subsequent supply stations,” said a senior GAIL Gas official.
BMTC, in fact, seems set to be the next biggest customer. Last week, GAIL Gas sought permission for setting up two new stations besides the ones in Peenya, Somanahalli and Hennur. However, the delay is because of clearances at all levels.
Meanwhile, individual investors are worried that they will not be able to get a good return on their investment if they open CNG stations. “Investors are apprehensive as they are not sure whether they will get good returns as CNG is new here,” the official admitted.
