ONGC Aims to Boost Natural Gas Production in Tripura to 4 MMSCMD Amid Infrastructure Hurdles
Agartala, Feb 08, 2025, By Our Correspondent91
The state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) is working towards increasing natural gas production in Tripura to 4 Million Metric Standard Cubic Meters per Day (MMSCMD). The northeastern state is known for its abundant natural gas reserves, and ONGC currently extracts approximately 3.5 MMSCMD from various operational wells across Tripura.
Chief General Manager (CGM) of ONGC, Roopesh Kumar Sharan, highlighted the company’s efforts and challenges in achieving this ambitious target. Speaking to the media, he explained that while ONGC has identified several high-potential gas wells in the region, production capacity is being hindered due to difficulties in connecting these wells to the required gas collection stations. The company has been actively working to overcome these logistical and infrastructural bottlenecks.
One of the primary challenges has been the completion of a crucial pipeline network, which is essential for streamlining gas transportation. While most of the pipeline infrastructure has already been laid, a small but strategically important section in Kunjaban, West Tripura, runs through a defence area. This required formal approval from the Ministry of Defence before work could proceed. ONGC submitted its request through the state government, and after a lengthy approval process, the necessary clearance has finally been granted.
With the green light from the Ministry of Defence, ONGC is now preparing to expedite the remaining work on the pipeline. Sharan mentioned that under normal circumstances, the company could achieve the 4 MMSCMD production target within a month. However, due to the densely populated nature of the Kunjaban locality and potential unforeseen logistical or administrative challenges, the completion of the pipeline may take up to six months. ONGC is taking all necessary precautions to ensure smooth execution while minimizing disruptions to the local population.
Training and Skill Development for Local Youth
Beyond its production expansion efforts, ONGC is also focusing on skill development and employment generation in Tripura. Under the Prime Minister’s Internship Scheme, the company is providing training to 300 young individuals in the state. This initiative includes both theoretical and practical orientation training, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required for opportunities in the energy sector. The program is part of ONGC’s broader commitment to fostering local talent and supporting economic growth in the region.
Enhancement of Gas Supply to Power Sector
In a related development, ONGC has recently increased the supply of natural gas to the 726 MW-capacity Palatana gas-based power plant, operated by ONGC Tripura Power Company (OTPC). The Palatana plant plays a crucial role in Tripura’s energy landscape, supplying electricity both domestically and to neighboring Bangladesh.
Since March 2016, Tripura State Electricity Corporation Limited (TSECL), in collaboration with NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN), has been exporting 70 to 80 MW of electricity daily to Bangladesh from this facility. The power plant consists of two separate units, each with a capacity of 363.3 MW, which were inaugurated in 2013 and 2014 by former President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, respectively.
ONGC’s Legacy in Tripura’s Energy Sector
ONGC has maintained a significant presence in Tripura’s energy sector for over five decades. Since beginning its operations in the state in 1972, the company has drilled more than 200 wells across various locations. A substantial number of these wells continue to produce gas, contributing to the state’s growing role in India’s energy security.
The company remains committed to further exploration and development in the region, aiming to optimize its production capabilities while ensuring sustainable and efficient resource utilization. The upcoming completion of the Kunjaban pipeline and continued infrastructure upgrades are expected to strengthen Tripura’s position as a key natural gas hub in the country.