PNGRB CLOSE TO FINALISING BIDS FOR FOUR LPG PIPELINES

NEWS: PNGRB finalising bids for 4 LPG pipelines

Background of the Initiative

• The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB)à Process of finalising bids for four LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) pipeline projects.
• Part of its broader objective to strengthen LPG infrastructure and reduce dependence on road transportation.
• Aligns with the government’s goal to eliminate bulk LPG transport by road by 2030.

Key Features of the Pipeline Projects:

• Total length of pipelines: ~2,500 km
• Estimated investment: ₹12,500 crore
• Pipelines identified under a suo motu proposal by PNGRB
• Aimà Develop a robust LPG pipeline network across regions

Major Proposed Pipeline Routes

• Cherlapally (Telangana) → Nagpur (Maharashtra)
• Shikrapur (Maharashtra) → Humnabad (Karnataka) → Goa
• Paradip (Odisha) → Raipur (Chhattisgarh)
• Jhansi (Uttar Pradesh) → Sitarganj (Uttarakhand)

Objectives of the Initiative

• Enhance LPG storage and transportation infrastructure
• Ensure safe and efficient supply chain of LPG
• Reduce risks associated with road transportation (accidents, delays)
• Promote environment-friendly transport system

Advantages of Pipeline Transportation

• Higher safety compared to road transport
• Lower operational costs in the long run
• Continuous and efficient supply
• Ability to store LPG and alternative fuels through pipeline systems
• Useful during emergencies or crises

Environmental Significance

• Reducing road transport will help in: Lower greenhouse gas emissions
• Supporting clean energy transition goals
• Pipelines are considered a more sustainable mode of transport

Economic Importance

• Pipelines are more economical than road transport over time
• Large-scale investment (₹12,500 crore) boosts infrastructure development
• Enhances energy security and supply reliability

Institutional Role of PNGRB:

• PNGRBà regulatory authority for petroleum and natural gas sector in India
• Responsible foràRegulating pipelines and distribution networks, ensuring fair competition and infrastructure development