Operational Context
On 17 November, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) experienced a sudden interruption in CNG supply, affecting Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, and Thane. The disruption stems from a fault within the CNG distribution network, temporarily halting fuel availability for a wide range of public and commercial transport. Historically, similar outages have resulted in long queues at functional pumps, reduced public mobility, and significant logistical delays, particularly for auto-rickshaws, taxis, and municipal transport services. Restoration has been announced for by noon of 18 November, but cascading congestion and service normalization typically take an additional twenty-four hours to stabilize.
Executive Summary
- Event Date: 18 November 2025
- Location: Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane (Maharashtra)
- Risk Category: Travel Risks
- Severity Level: 4 / 5
- Confidence Score: 90 %
A major CNG supply disruption is impacting the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, with restoration expected by noon on 18 November. Historical patterns indicate a likely disruption duration of twenty-four to forty-eight hours, with severe impacts on transport services and business operations.
Known Hotspots & Sensitive Zones
High Impact: Andheri, Ghatkopar, Navi Mumbai hubs, Thane West—areas with high density of CNG-dependent taxis, autos, and school buses.
Medium Impact: Major public transport nodes including CSMIA, BKC, Dadar, and bus depots.
Low Impact: Peripheral residential areas with lower reliance on commercial CNG mobility.
Past shortages show recurring stress in high-volume commute corridors.
Impact on Transportation & Services
Severe disruption to taxis, auto-rickshaws, and CNG bus fleets; long queues at pumps; cancellations of NMMT bus services; and reduced service frequency across MMR. Increased congestion on Western Express Highway and key corridors is likely as commuters shift to private vehicles. School transport and last-mile logistics face delays, affecting business operations and workforce mobility.
Recommended Action
- Enable flexible work arrangements, including remote work or staggered shifts.
- Deploy backup transport (diesel/petrol fleet, shuttles) for essential staff.
- Coordinate with logistics partners to switch to alternative-fuel vehicles.
- Review facility-level CNG dependencies and activate backup fuel sources.
- Maintain transparent communication with employees, clients, and vendors; provide updates on expected delays.
Multi-Dimensional Impact
Public protests, university staff demonstrations, and scheduled events in Maharashtra may face reduced attendance or amplified public frustration due to limited transport availability. Delays in ongoing infrastructure works, such as metro expansions, may worsen crowding on affected corridors.
Emergency Contacts
- Mahanagar Gas Limited (MGL): 022 6867 4500
- Mumbai Traffic Police Helpline: 8454999999
- Disaster Management (Mumbai): 1916
- Maharashtra Emergency Number: 112
Situational Outlook
CNG supply in Mumbai Metropolitan Region is expected to normalize within twenty-four hours under the baseline scenario, with residual congestion and limited transport availability continuing through the day. A moderate escalation may occur if restoration faces technical delays, extending the shortage by one to two days and intensifying pressure on public transport, schools, and logistics. In a severe scenario, deeper pipeline faults could prolong disruptions for several days, resulting in widespread transport paralysis, economic losses, and heightened public frustration. Overall, short-term disruptions are likely, but prolonged impact remains a low-probability outcome.
Strategic Takeaway
The disruption underscores the vulnerability of Mumbai’s mobility ecosystem to single-point failures in CNG infrastructure. Businesses should strengthen transport redundancies, diversify fuel-dependent logistics, and enhance crisis communication frameworks. Early-warning systems and platforms such as MitKat’s Datasurfr can support continuous risk tracking and preparedness. Stay ahead of operational risks with real-time alerts, scenario modeling, and expert advisories with datasurfr’s Predict. Start your 14-day free trial of Datasurfr’s Risk Intelligence Platform today.
