PM Modi inaugurates major petroleum pipeline expansion project in Assam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the capacity expansion project of the Numaligarh–Siliguri Product Pipeline during a public event in Guwahati on Friday. The project has been carried out by Oil India Limited (OIL) to improve the transportation of petroleum products in the North-Eastern region.

Pipeline capacity increased significantly

The Numaligarh–Siliguri Product Pipeline, officially declared, measures 654 km long, 406 mm (16-inch) and operates between multiple states. The pipeline has the capacity to move 1.72 million metric tonnes of petroleum products during each annual cycle.

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The system now operates at 5.5 million metric tonnes of annual capacity, which was introduced after the upgrade process, ANI reported.

Pipeline expansion to support Numaligarh’s growth and regional development

The expansion project aims to provide support for the Numaligarh Refinery, which will increase its processing capacity from 3 million metric tonnes to 9 million metric tonnes.

The Government of India is implementing this initiative as part of its Hydrocarbon Vision 2030 program that aims to develop the North-Eastern region.

Infrastructure modernisation and cost savings

The capacity enhancement has been achieved by improving existing infrastructure facilities. Sekoni, Guwahati, Bongaigaon and Madarihat locations now operate as intermediate pumping stations after existing pigging stations underwent conversion.

The Numaligarh dispatch terminal received upgraded pumping systems and the Siliguri receipt terminal received upgraded facilities to create more efficient and safer operational procedures.

Cost-effective brownfield development strengthens fuel transport network

The project has been completed as a brownfield development, meaning it was built by upgrading the existing pipeline system rather than constructing a completely new one. The work was completed at an estimated cost of around Rs 750 crore, lower than the originally approved budget of Rs 860 crore.

The existing infrastructure brought financial savings, which were used to create better results.

Employment and regional development benefits

The project created substantial employment opportunities during its development and execution stages. The project required approximately 4.1 million man-hours of labour across three years in Assam and West Bengal.

The project will enhance fuel transportation systems in the North-East, helping India's national energy security boost, according to officials.

Foundation stones for major development projects

The Prime Minister opened multiple development projects in Assam, such as the inauguration and foundation stone laying ceremony for projects worth Rs 19,480 crore.

Improved connectivity seen as key driver of regional economic progress

The Prime Minister's Office reported that he spoke to a large crowd in Guwahati while he welcomed people from all social backgrounds. He sent his best wishes to both farmers who participated in the event from different parts of India and tea garden workers who worked throughout the area.

The government believes that these infrastructure projects will generate economic growth through improved connectivity, which will create superior employment prospects for residents of the North-Eastern states.