Central India is set for a major energy boost as the Nagpur–Jabalpur natural gas pipeline has been successfully completed by GAIL (India) Limited. The project is part of the 1,702-km Mumbai–Nagpur– Jharsuguda Pipeline (MNJPL) under the PM Gati Shakti Master Plan and is expected to be commissioned soon. Alongside this, Megha Infrastructure Pvt Ltd has been awarded the contract to develop door-to-door Piped Natural Gas (PNG) supply in Jabalpur. The 317-km pipeline connects Nagpur to Jabalpur, passing through key districts like Chhindwara and Seoni. Around 256 km of the pipeline lies in Madhya Pradesh while 60–62 km is in Maharashtra. Speaking to ‘The Hitavada’, GAIL’s Independent Director Akhilesh Jain said the project has been completed within the planned timeline. He said that it supports Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of expanding the national gas grid. The project is now awaiting clearance from the Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO), after which it is likely to be inaugurated soon.

 

Before commissioning, the pipeline successfully underwent nitrogen gas trials. Technical teams filled the line with nitrogen and carried out safety checks at various distribution points. Once operational, the pipeline is expected to end the shortage of CNG in Jabalpur and nearby districts. At present, limited CNG stations often create difficulties for vehicle owners. The new network plans to support over 550 CNG stations and benefit nearly 86 lakh people across 14–15 districts, including Betul, Mandla and Sagar. Industries in the region will also benefit from access to cleaner and cheaper fuel, helping reduce costs. Besides this, the project will enable PNG connections to nearly 26 lakh households, reducing reliance on LPG cylinders. With an investment of over Rs 1,100 crore, the project is being seen as a game-changer for regional development. It will cut transportation costs and reduce fuel losses. A key gas distribution hub has been set up at Kosamghat near Barela Road in Jabalpur, which will support further expansion across the region.