Centre sanctions Rs 491 crore for Tripura-Mizoram gas pipeline under North East Natural Gas Grid. PNG supply to Aizawl and Mamit by 2028, boosting clean energy access, eco-friendly cooking fuel, and regional infrastructure development in Mizoram and Tripura.
In a major boost to energy infrastructure in the North East, the Centre has allocated Rs 491 crore for the implementation of the Tripura-Mizoram natural gas pipeline project. The announcement was made by Mizoram Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister B Lalchhanzova during a session of the Mizoram Assembly on Thursday.
Responding to a query from opposition BJP MLA K. Beichhua, the Minister informed the House that the allocation forms part of the broader North East Natural Gas Pipeline Grid project, which has been earmarked a total outlay of Rs 9,265 crore by the Central government.
119.5-Km Strategic Pipeline Stretch
Out of the total sanctioned amount, Rs 491 crore has been specifically designated for the 119.5-km pipeline stretch connecting Panisagar in northern Tripura to Aizawl in Mizoram. The primary objective of the project is to provide Piped Natural Gas (PNG) connections for domestic cooking purposes, offering a cleaner and more convenient alternative to traditional fuels.
The terminal station for the pipeline will be located at Sihhmui, approximately 21 km from Aizawl. The ambitious project is being executed by Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL), and around 45 per cent of the physical work has already been completed, according to official sources.
Authorities expect the entire pipeline installation to be completed by December 2027. Once the main pipeline reaches Sihhmui and becomes operational, the next phase of distribution will begin.
PNG Rollout in Aizawl and Mamit by Early 2028
Following the completion of the main pipeline by IGGL, the government-owned Tripura Natural Gas Company Limited (TNGCL) will begin laying the local distribution network. This will enable PNG connections to households in Aizawl and Mamit districts, which share a border with Tripura.
Officials confirmed that residents in these areas are expected to receive PNG supply by early 2028. The introduction of piped natural gas is expected to significantly reduce dependence on LPG cylinders and firewood, thereby lowering household expenses and improving environmental sustainability.
Strengthening the North East Energy Grid
The Tripura-Mizoram pipeline is part of the larger North East Natural Gas Pipeline Grid, a strategic infrastructure initiative aimed at enhancing energy connectivity across the region. With a total investment of Rs 9,265 crore, the grid seeks to integrate the North Eastern states into the national gas network, promoting industrial growth, urban development, and clean energy adoption.
Energy experts believe that expanding gas infrastructure in the North East will also attract investment, generate employment, and support economic diversification in states like Mizoram and Tripura.
TNGCL’s Expanding Footprint
Established on July 10, 1990, TNGCL is a joint venture involving GAIL (India) Limited, the Tripura Industrial Development Corporation Ltd, and Assam Gas Company Ltd. Over the years, it has emerged as one of Eastern India’s fastest-growing natural gas distribution companies.
The company currently supplies eco-friendly and cost-effective natural gas to domestic, commercial, industrial, and transport sectors across West Tripura and Gomati districts. Officials state that TNGCL has maintained an almost 100 per cent reliability record in gas supply, reinforcing its reputation as a dependable energy provider.
Beyond PNG services, TNGCL has played a pioneering role in promoting Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in Eastern India. It was the first company to establish CNG stations across the region, helping drive a transition toward cleaner mobility.
At present, over 50,000 vehicles in Tripura operate on environmentally friendly CNG, marking a substantial shift from conventional fossil fuels. Thousands of households in West Tripura and Gomati districts already benefit from PNG connections for cooking purposes.
Clean Energy for Mizoram’s Future
The upcoming pipeline to Mizoram is expected to replicate this success, bringing safe, continuous, and affordable natural gas supply to households in Aizawl and adjoining areas. The project aligns with the Centre’s broader vision of promoting clean energy access, reducing carbon emissions, and strengthening energy security in remote and border states.
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With nearly half the work already completed and a clear timeline set for 2027-28, the Tripura-Mizoram gas pipeline represents a transformative infrastructure initiative for the North East. Once operational, it will mark a significant milestone in ensuring sustainable energy access and modern urban development for Mizoram’s growing population.
