The Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) said on Friday it has initiated the bidding process for the development of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) pipeline infrastructure ito eliminate bulk movement to the extent possible.

These pipelines would also serve as storage during times of need and address the supply security crisis in the country. This was pertinent considering India’s LPG import scenario in light of the West Asia conflict and closure of the Strait of Hormuz (SoH).

It is proposed to do away with road transportation of bulk LPG by 2030. Through this initiative, PNGRB reiterates its commitment to developing a robust and future-ready energy infrastructure, promoting the use of cleaner fuels, and supporting the Centre’s vision of ensuring accessible, efficient, and sustainable energy for all,” the regulator said.

This marks a major stride in strengthening India’s energy logistics network and would enhance reliability, safety, efficiency, and environmental sustainability of LPG transportation across the country, it added.

“The proposed pipelines are designed to connect key supply sources, including refineries and import terminals, with LPG bottling plants, thereby ensuring seamless evacuation and distribution of LPG across multiple regions,” PNGRB said.

As part of this initiative, nine LPG pipeline projects have been identified for development. PNGRB has initiated a suo-moto proposal and carried out bidding for these pipelines, it added.

It is in the process of concluding bid proposals for four pipelines, the Cherlapally–Nagpur pipeline, the Shikrapur–Hubli–Goa pipeline, Paradip–Raipur pipeline and Jhansi-Sitarganj pipeline.

The cumulative length of these proposed pipelines is around 2,500 km. They would attract a tentative investment of around ₹12,500 crore.

“In view of precedent accidents associated with LPG transportation by road, modal transfer from the road to pipelines would reduce the risks involved in road transportation, ensuring safer and more dependable delivery,” PNGRB emphasised.

The project would significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to India’s climate goals by replacing fuel transportation via tankers with an efficient pipeline system. It is expected to enable seamless, high-volume LPG movement with reduced transit time and minimal losses.

These pipelines would not only improve safety and efficiency in the supply chain but also would prove to be more economical over other modes of transportation. It would attract investment, generate employment, and support regional development.

Published on April 17, 2026