15.10.26 – By NewsIP Bureau – New Delhi – Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) has highlighted a technology-led safety initiative aimed at strengthening CNG cylinder verification before refuelling, with an AI-powered pilot project designed to check cylinder hydrotest validity at 10 CNG stations.
The initiative focuses on a key concern for CNG vehicle owners: ensuring that onboard cylinders have valid hydrotest certification before compressed natural gas (CNG) is dispensed. The system combines vehicle recognition technology with online certification verification to support safer refuelling operations.
AI-Powered CNG Verification: How the System Works
The pilot uses cameras installed at participating CNG stations to capture vehicle registration numbers. An AI-enabled application then processes the information and connects with the online portal of the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) to verify the hydrotest status of the vehicle’s CNG cylinder.
If a cylinder’s certification has expired or is found to be invalid, the system sends automated alerts to station personnel through handheld devices, LED displays and public announcement systems. These alerts enable staff to take appropriate action before refuelling.
Also Read….IGL Starts Automated CNG Safety Checks at 10 StationsThe technology is intended to supplement existing manual verification procedures rather than replace station-level safety checks. The initiative is aligned with Rule 35(1) of the Gas Cylinders Rules, as amended in 2025, according to the information provided by IGL.
No Valid Hydrotest, No CNG: Safety Checks for Vehicle Owners
For CNG vehicle owners, maintaining valid cylinder test certification remains an important part of responsible vehicle ownership. The automated verification system is designed to help station teams identify expired or invalid certificates before dispensing fuel.
The pilot also reflects the growing use of artificial intelligence in operational safety, with automated vehicle recognition supporting regulatory compliance at CNG dispensing stations.
Dr. Sanjay Kumar Singh, Joint Chief Controller of Explosives (North Circle), PESO, appreciated IGL’s efforts to strengthen safe CNG dispensing. He described the initiative as an early step that could be scaled up and highlighted the importance of safety as India works towards increasing natural gas’s share in the overall energy mix and exploring hydrogen blending.
IGL Reinforces Its Comprehensive Safety Management Plan
Kumar Shanker, Managing Director, IGL, said safety was a fundamental responsibility underpinning the company’s operations. He emphasised the importance of prescribed safety checks for every vehicle entering an IGL station to protect customers, employees and the public.
Mohit Bhatia, Director (Commercial), IGL, said the company planned to evaluate the pilot for potential expansion and explore wider integration of certification records with vehicle databases in consultation with regulatory stakeholders.
Alongside the technology initiative, IGL has strengthened its Comprehensive Safety Management Action Plan for CNG stations. The framework incorporates statutory requirements, standard operating procedures and PESO guidance, with mechanisms for monitoring compliance, identifying violations and implementing corrective measures.
Public Awareness Campaign Targets CNG Cylinder Safety
IGL has also launched a multi-channel public awareness campaign to encourage timely CNG cylinder hydrotesting and responsible vehicle ownership. The campaign includes Delhi autorickshaws, station posters, FM radio, print media and social media platforms.
By combining AI-based verification, station-level safety procedures and public awareness, IGL aims to strengthen CNG refuelling safety and improve compliance with cylinder certification requirements.
For CNG users, the key takeaway is clear: check the validity of the cylinder’s hydrotest certificate and follow the applicable safety requirements before refuelling.
