Evaluating Environmental Accountability in India’s Natural Gas Sector: An Analysis of the PNGRB Act and Environmental Regulations

The natural gas sector in India plays a pivotal role in the country's energy landscape, contributing to economic growth and energy security. However, the rapid expansion of gas infrastructure, including pipelines and distribution networks, has raised significant environmental concerns. This paper critically analyzes the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) Act, 2006 in the context of environmental accountability, exploring its interaction with key environmental laws such as the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, and related regulatory frameworks. It also evaluates the effectiveness of existing legal mechanisms, such as Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA), in mitigating environmental risks. Using case studies of major pipeline projects, this paper highlights the legal gaps and challenges in enforcing environmental regulations within the natural gas sector. The study further explores the role of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) and other regulatory bodies in addressing environmental violations linked to natural gas projects. It identifies key shortcomings in the PNGRB Act concerning environmental oversight and proposes legal reforms to strengthen environmental accountability. The paper concludes by offering recommendations for integrating environmental sustainability into the regulatory framework, aiming to balance India’s energy needs with environmental protection goals.