India will add over 7,450 km of gas pipeline network over the next 2-3 years to ramp up its supply lines to keep pace with the growing demand from the consumption centres in the country.
Asia's second fastest growing economy has most of he gas pipeline infrastructure concentrated in west and north while the south and east have largely been left untouched by the revolution increased availability of gas is bringing.
"The challenge for an emerging market like India is to develop pipeline infrastructure in all parts of the country, including in remote areas, in tandem with increasing supplies.
Only then we will be able to secure inclusive growth," Petroleum Minister Murli Deora said addressing the VI Asia Gas Partnership Summit here.
The present natural gas transportation infrastructure in the country is around 10,800 km with a capacity to move 270 million standard cubic meters of gas per day.
"Major pipeline projects are underway in the country, which would add another 7,450 km and 248 mmscmd to our gas transport infrastructure," he said.
Natural gas, he said, was the fuel of choice today. "It enhances energy security, it is an efficient fuel for power generation, a cheaper feedstock for industries, a cleaner alternative for vehicles, it reduces air-pollution and, in general, it leads to improved quality of life."
