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There is important news for those driving CNG vehicles in Delhi-NCR. Now just showing the compliance plate before filling gas at the CNG pump will not be enough. IGL has also made it mandatory to check the hydro test certificate. CNG will not be filled in the vehicle without both the documents. Why was the rule changed, for how long is the hydro test valid and which vehicle owners may face problems? Read complete information here.
If you have a CNG car, then know the new rule.
For CNG vehicle owners of Delhi-NCR, filling gas is no longer as easy as before. Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) has issued strict instructions to all its CNG pump operators that along with showing valid compliance plate, it will now be mandatory to check the hydro test certificate of the cylinder installed in the vehicle. Without these two documents, no vehicle will be able to take gas.
Company officials themselves are monitoring the pumps. After the implementation of the instructions, there has been an argument between many drivers and employees. Action has also been taken against about six pumps for violating the rules. This new arrangement has emerged from the review of security arrangements after an accident in Tikri Kalan. Now both the strength and validity of the cylinder will have to be proved, only then CNG will be available.
Why was there a need for a new rule?
After the accident between a CNG pump and a vehicle located at Tikri Kalan, IGL started checking the cylinder safety system at all the pumps. During investigation, compliance plates in many vehicles were not found to be valid. Earlier gas was given only after seeing the plate, but now giving priority to safety, hydro test record i.e. certificate has also been made mandatory. According to a media report, action has been taken against about six negligent pumps.
What is hydro test and how is it done?
Hydro test is a test of the strength and safety of the cylinder. In this, by applying high pressure in the cylinder, its strength, leakage and ability to bear pressure is checked. If the test is successful, a compliance plate is placed on the vehicle and a certificate is issued. Hydro test of CNG cylinder remains valid for three years. Now it is necessary to show this certificate before filling gas at the pump.
Impact on pump operators and vehicle owners
IGL has sent written instructions to all the pump operators and the officers themselves are monitoring. After the implementation of the instructions, there have been arguments between drivers and employees at many places. Vehicle owners will now have to ensure that both their hydro test certificate and compliance plate are valid. Without these, gas will not be available, which will increase safety, but the process may take a little longer.
About the Author
Ram Mohan Mishra is an active journalist in the automotive world of digital media and has been working continuously in the field of auto journalism since 2021. Presently he is handling the auto desk of News18 Hindi as Senior Sub-Editor.
