Why in news?
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has announced that it will invite bids for nine liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) pipeline projects, collectively stretching about 2,500 kilometres. These pipelines aim to replace bulk LPG transport by road, enhance safety and reduce greenhouse‑gas emissions. The estimated investment for the projects is around ₹12,500 crore.
Background on PNGRB
The PNGRB was established under the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board Act 2006 to regulate midstream and downstream petroleum and natural‑gas operations in India. The board comprises one chairperson, three members and one member (legal). It is tasked with protecting consumer interests, promoting competition and ensuring the orderly growth of the petroleum and natural‑gas sector.
Functions of the board
- Registering and authorising entities to lay, build, operate or expand petroleum product pipelines, city gas distribution networks, LNG terminals and storage facilities.
- Declaring pipelines as common carriers or contract carriers to ensure open access and fair tariffs.
- Monitoring availability and quality of petroleum products and natural gas and enforcing technical and safety standards.
- Levying fees and determining transportation tariffs to maintain an economically stable industry.
- Ensuring that customers receive goods at competitive prices and safeguarding the interests of both consumers and companies.
Details of the new LPG pipelines
- Projects: Four pipelines are currently at the bidding stage—Cherlapally–Nagpur, Shikrapur–Hubballi–Goa, Paradip–Raipur and Jhansi–Sitarganj—while five more are in the planning phase.
- Objective: The pipelines will connect LPG import terminals and refineries to bottling plants across different regions. By 2030 the board aims to eliminate bulk road transport of LPG, which currently exposes drivers to accident risks and contributes to congestion.
- Environmental impact: Shifting from road to pipelines will reduce carbon emissions, lower fuel consumption and minimise spillage and accidents.
- Investment and jobs: The ₹12,500 crore expenditure is expected to generate employment during construction and strengthen the pipeline infrastructure network.
Conclusion
By expanding the LPG pipeline network, the PNGRB seeks to improve safety, environmental sustainability and efficiency in India’s energy supply chain. The initiative also demonstrates how regulators can play a proactive role in modernising infrastructure while protecting consumer interests.
