Punjab: GAIL faces problems in laying gas pipeline

Facing problems in laying gas pipeline in Punjab, GAIL (India) Ltd Executive Director (Projects) Ashutosh Karnatak today met Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to apprise him about the problem and sought his cooperation for the completion of the project by the targeted March 2011.

Earlier, GAIL had already taken up the matter with the state Chief Secretary, informing him that construction work in Punjab was getting hampered due to various social problems. Although, they have completed about 35 km of pipeline work in Bathinda, Barnala and Ludhiana districts but due to frequent stoppage of work by local unions, they were not able to progress ahead and therefore, warranted State Governments’ immediate intervention.

It may be recalled that in order to implement the project, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has approved the request of GAIL for inviting Expression of Interests (EOI) for Dadri-Bawana-Nangal Natural Gas pipeline. The estimated investment for the 501 km pipeline is to the tune of Rs 2,500 crore. Out of the total length, 291 km will be laid in Punjab.

Ashutosh urged the Chief Minister to constitute a task force under a Secretary level senior officer for constant monitoring and support till the completion of construction work and also sought the support of the district administrations.