Gujarat State Petronet (GSPL) has commissioned an 18 MMSCMD natural gas pipeline linking the 5 MMTPA LNG regasification terminal at Chhara, Gir-Somnath, to the national gas grid.

Built at a cost of Rs 6.5 billion, the 36-inch-diameter pipeline, developed by Mumbai-based Ace Pipeline Contracts, runs near the eco-sensitive Gir National Park. Advanced construction techniques, including automatic welding, were used to accelerate completion.

The Chhara terminal, operated by HPCL LNG, a subsidiary of HPCL, strengthens India's push to increase natural gas usage to 15 per cent of its energy mix by 2030.