Centre's draft rules for gas meters propose mandatory testing, verification and stamping

The draft rules also have a provision for re-verification to ensure their correctness once these are in use.

Centre has framed draft rules for all gas meters used for domestic, commercial, and industrial purposes, making it mandatory for all such units to undergo testing, verification and stamping, prior to use, a government statement said on April 14, a move seen as promoting fair trade and consumer protection.

The objective of the draft rules is to bring in reliability and transparency in the measurement of gas. "Verified and stamped gas meters will prevent overcharging or under-measurement, reduce disputes and provide guaranteed protection to consumers against faulty or manipulated devices," said the Department of Consumer Affairs. Once adopted, consumers should benefit through fair billing and improved energy efficiency from standardized equipment.

The draft rules have been finalized with a transitional period in mind that would allow industry and authorities to prepare for compliance. The draft norms also have a provision for re-verification to ensure their correctness once these are in use.

The proposal plan offers a compliance framework for manufacturers and gas distribution companies that aligns with international best practices and OIML (International Organization of Legal Metrology) standards, which would strengthen India's credibility in international trade and ensure quality assurance in the domestic manufacturing ecosystem.

Genus Power and HPL Electric are widely tracked makers of smart meters in India.

According to one government estimate, by 2025, as many as 230 Indian cities are likely to have infrastructure for piped gas. As the pipeline network grows in newer geographies, it is expected to reach nearly four times the piped gas infra, with CNG stations set to rise three-fold.