Government Rule
In India, the installation of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) kits in vehicles is regulated by various governmental bodies at both the central and state levels. Here are some key rules and regulations pertaining to CNG kit fitting in India:
1. Type Approval: All CNG conversion kits and components must undergo type approval from designated authorities, such as the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) or the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT), to ensure compliance with safety and performance standards.
2. Authorized Installers:CNG kit installation must be carried out by authorized and certified installers or workshops approved by relevant authorities. These installers must adhere to prescribed installation procedures and safety standards to ensure the proper functioning of CNG systems.
3. Vehicle Eligibility:Only vehicles that are certified by the manufacturer for CNG conversion are eligible for installation of CNG kits. Typically, this includes specific models that have been tested and approved for CNG use.
4. Approval from Transport Department: Prior approval from the regional transport department or relevant authorities is often required before installing a CNG kit in a vehicle. This may involve submission of necessary documents, such as vehicle registration details and proof of compliance with emissions norms.
5. Safety Standards Compliance: CNG kit installations must comply with safety standards prescribed by regulatory authorities, including specifications for pressure vessels, piping, fittings, and other components. This is essential to prevent leaks, fires, or other safety hazards associated with CNG use.
6. Emissions Certification: Vehicles fitted with CNG kits must undergo emissions testing and certification to ensure compliance with applicable emissions standards, such as Bharat Stage (BS) norms or equivalent standards set by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) or state pollution control boards.
7. Tamper-Proofing:Measures may be required to ensure the tamper-proofing of CNG kits and components to prevent unauthorized modifications or adjustments that could compromise safety or emissions performance.
8. Documentation and Registration:Proper documentation, including installation certificates, compliance certificates, and endorsement on the vehicle registration certificate (RC), is essential for legal recognition of CNG kit fitting. Vehicles fitted with CNG kits must be registered as "dual-fuel" vehicles with the relevant authorities.
9. Periodic Inspection and Maintenance:Regular inspection and maintenance of CNG systems are necessary to ensure continued safety and performance. Vehicle owners are typically required to adhere to prescribed maintenance schedules and periodic inspections by authorized service centers.
10.Penalties for Non-Compliance:Non-compliance with CNG kit fitting regulations, including unauthorized installations or modifications, may attract penalties, fines, or legal consequences as per applicable laws and regulations.
It's important for vehicle owners and installers to familiarize themselves with the specific rules and regulations governing CNG kit fitting in their respective states or regions, as requirements may vary. Compliance with these regulations is essential to ensure safety, environmental protection, and legal compliance in the use of CNG-fueled vehicles.