Question : TRANS NATIONAL PIPELINE PROJECTS

(a) the status of implementation and project cost for ongoing transnational natural gas pipeline projects in the country, project-wise including India-Pakistan pipeline;

(b) whether the Government intends to lay product pipeline between Motihari to Amlekhganj in Nepal;

(c) if so, the details thereof along with the details of agreement, if any, signed between Nepal Oil Corporation and India Oil Corporation Limited for construction of said pipeline and the follow-up action taken by the Government thereon;

(d) whether the Government has consulted various stakeholders/concerned authorities particularly the Ministry of External Affairs before arriving at any decision in this regard and if so, the outcome thereof;

(e) whether the Government also proposed to set up gas pipeline with Bangladesh and if so, the details thereof ; and

(f) the details of the benefits which are likely to be extended to various industries in the country including West Bengal?

MINISTER OF STATE (INDEPENDENT CHARGE) IN THE MINISTRY OF PETROLEUM AND NATURAL GAS (SHRI DHARMENDRA PRADHAN)

(a). There is no ongoing transnational gas pipeline projects in the country, at present. However, a few transnational pipeline projects, including TAPI (Turkmenistan- Afghanistan- Pakistan-India) are under discussion

(b) to (d). Discussions with the Government of Nepal on the Petroleum Product Pipeline from Raxaul to Amlekhganj are under way. The project is to be executed in two phases. The main facilities in the first phase include a 38 km long pipeline from Raxaul, India to Amlekhgunj, Nepal and retrofitting of Amlekhganj Depot. Indian Oil has agreed to bear the cost towards the pipeline system and retrofitting of Amlekhganj Depot at a cost of INR 150 crore.

No agreement has yet been signed between Nepal Oil Corporation and Indian Oil Corporation Limited.

(e). No, Sir.

(f). Does not arise.