Delhi CNG New Rule: Refuelling would be declined if you don't have this certificate, govt enforces strict rule at filling stations

Delhi government will strictly enforce the mandatory hydro-testing requirement for CNG vehicle cylinders, with refuelling denied if the certificate has expired or cannot be produced, senior officials said. The move comes after a CNG cylinder explosion at a Delhi filling station on August 19 killed three pump workers and seriously injured three others.

Hydro test mandatory every three years

Under Rule 35(1) of the Gas Cylinder Rules (2025 Amendment), CNG cylinders must undergo a hydro test every three years. The test checks whether the cylinder can withstand the high pressure at which CNG is stored. During the procedure, the cylinder is emptied, filled with water and subjected to high pressure. This helps identify leaks, cracks, swelling and other structural problems.

CNG cylinders in vehicles typically store gas at pressure levels of 200-250 bar. Repeated use, pressure changes and exposure to road vibrations can affect the cylinder over time. An official said periodic testing is important because some structural damage may not be visible during a routine inspection.

Refuelling to be denied without valid certificate

The hydro-test certificate is the document confirming that the cylinder has passed the prescribed high-pressure water test and is considered safe for use. Delhi authorities will now require vehicle owners to produce a valid certificate at CNG stations. Vehicles with expired certificates, or those unable to show the document, will not be allowed to refuel.

IGL starts verification drive

Indraprastha Gas Limited (IGL) has started a special drive at its CNG stations to check the validity of hydro-test certificates before refuelling vehicles, according to the official. An IGL official said the periodic test is essential for every safe journey and urged vehicle owners to get their cylinders tested within the required period. Vehicle owners have also been advised to keep the hydro-test certificate in their vehicles after completing the test.

Where should CNG cylinders be tested?

Vehicle owners must get their CNG cylinders tested at a centre approved by the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), as required under the rules. The stricter checks are aimed at ensuring that CNG cylinders in vehicles continue to meet safety requirements and that cylinders with expired or unavailable test certificates are not refuelled.