The board of Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) approved an investment of ₹2,449 crore to lay, build and operate the 424.65-km Kochi–Kanyakumari–Thoothukudi Natural Gas Pipeline (KTPL). The pipeline will strengthen natural gas infrastructure in southern India and improve connectivity between key demand centres in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
Pipeline to Offer 6.84 MMSCMD Capacity
The KTPL will have a total system capacity of 6.84 million metric standard cubic metres per day (MMSCMD), including common-carrier capacity. Of this, at least 1.71 MMSCMD will be available as common-carrier capacity, according to IOCL’s regulatory filing. This capacity will allow other eligible gas users and suppliers to access the pipeline network in accordance with applicable regulations.
PNGRB Authorises Kochi–Thoothukudi Pipeline
In April, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) authorised IOCL to lay, build, operate and expand the Kochi–Kanyakumari–Thoothukudi Natural Gas Pipeline. The proposed pipeline will originate at the Kochi LNG Terminal in Kerala and extend to Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu, covering approximately 425 km. With a system capacity of 6.84 MMSCMD, the project is expected to further strengthen natural gas transportation infrastructure across southern India.
Strengthening Southern India’s Gas Network
The project marks another step towards expanding the region’s natural gas infrastructure. As reported by thehindubusinessline.com, the pipeline will connect the Kochi LNG terminal with demand centres along the Kerala–Tamil Nadu corridor, supporting greater access to natural gas and the development of the regional gas network.
