Gas Pipeline to Kashmir, Regulatory Body starts bidding process
Srinagar, Jan 20 (WD):
Gas Pipeline Development in Kashmir: The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has initiated the bidding process for laying a 325-kilometer-long Jammu-Srinagar gas pipeline. Documents obtained by Wattan Daily reveal that the Board is inviting bids for authorization to lay, build, operate, or expand the natural gas pipeline, originating from the termination point of GAIL (India) Limited’s Gurdaspur-Jammu Natural Gas Pipeline.
Significant Milestone: This move is a crucial step toward meeting the natural gas requirements in Jammu and Kashmir. The PNGRB had proactively proposed the development of the Jammu-Srinagar natural gas pipeline last year, and after completing the public consultation process, bids were officially invited on January 12, 2023.
Pipeline Specifications: The proposed gas pipeline, with an initial system capacity of at least 2.0 MMSCMD, will include common carrier capacity. GAIL’s existing pipeline from Gurdaspur to Jammu is identified as the source for the Jammu-Srinagar Natural Gas Pipeline.
Authorization Process: The bidding process invites entities to submit proposals for authorization to develop the pipeline, considering the entire economic life and addressing the region’s natural gas needs. The spur-lines along the route will be provided by the authorized entity based on customer requirements and in compliance with relevant regulations.
Budgetary Commitment: The Union Budget 2022-23, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, underscored the commitment to the project, emphasizing the importance of this new gas pipeline development for the growth and energy needs of Jammu and Kashmir. (WD)
