Guwahati, 23 June (HS): In a major boost to Assam’s industrial and commercial sector, domestically produced natural gas from Upper Assam is set to be supplied through the North East Gas Grid across the north bank of the state up to Baihata Chariali, marking a historic first for the region.

The initiative has been undertaken with the support of the Government of Assam under the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma and North East Gas Distribution Company Limited (NEGDCL) Chairman and Sadiya MLA Bolin Chetia. The project is expected to strengthen energy accessibility for industries and businesses while promoting sustainable development.

The development comes at a crucial time when industries and commercial establishments have been facing difficulties due to the ongoing LPG supply crisis. In its initial phase, the natural gas network will cater to industrial and commercial consumers in the districts of Darrang, Udalguri, Sonitpur, Biswanath, Lakhimpur and Dhemaji.

Officials said the availability of domestically produced natural gas will provide a cleaner, more dependable and cost-effective fuel alternative to industries operating in these districts. The move is also expected to improve the state's industrial competitiveness and support environmentally friendly growth.

The gas supply network is planned to be extended further to Guwahati and other parts of Assam through the pipeline infrastructure of GAIL (India) Limited, expanding the reach of natural gas across the state.

Highlighting the significance of the project, NEGDCL Chief Executive Officer Manuj Kumar Baruah on Tuesday signed a Gas Sale Agreement (GSA) with GAIL (India) Limited for the supply of natural gas to industrial and commercial establishments in the identified districts. The agreement is expected to pave the way for wider adoption of natural gas and contribute to the country's efforts to reduce dependence on imported LPG while conserving foreign exchange reserves.----------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash