India Launches Multi-Billion Dollar LPG Pipeline Expansion Programme

India Commences Development of LPG Pipeline Infrastructure

The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has initiated the process of developing liquified petroleum gas (LPG) pipeline infrastructure to reduce the reliance on bulk movement of cooking fuel in India. As part of this initiative, the PNGRB is in the process of concluding bid proposals for four pipelines with an estimated investment of Rs 12,500 crore.

The proposed pipelines, which include the Cherlapally – Nagpur Pipeline, Shikrapur – Hubli – Goa Pipeline, Paradip – Raipur Pipeline, and Jhansi – Sitarganj Pipeline, have a cumulative length of approximately 2,500 km. This significant undertaking reflects the scale and strategic importance of the initiative, which aims to connect key supply sources, including refineries and import terminals, with LPG bottling plants.

A total of 9 LPG pipeline projects were identified for development as part of this initiative. The PNGRB has initiated a sou-moto proposal and carried out bidding for these pipelines. The proposed pipelines will not only reduce the bulk movement of cooking fuel but also act as storage facilities during times of need and to address supply security crises in the country.

The pipeline infrastructure will enable seamless evacuation and distribution of LPG across multiple regions, thereby enhancing the reliability, safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of LPG transportation in India. According to the PNGRB, the modal transfer from road to pipelines will reduce the risks involved in road transportation, ensuring safer and more dependable delivery.

| Pipeline | Length (km) | | --- | --- | | Cherlapally – Nagpur Pipeline | - | | Shikrapur – Hubli – Goa Pipeline | - | | Paradip – Raipur Pipeline | - | | Jhansi – Sitarganj Pipeline | - | | Total | 2,500 |

The PNGRB highlighted that India's LPG consumption in cooking and commercial end-use is crucial, and there is a need to connect ports and refineries with bottling plants efficiently. While pipelines are the preferred mode for transportation, a significant volume is still carried by bulk tankers. The development of LPG pipeline infrastructure will help address this issue and strengthen India's energy logistics network.