Indian Oil Corporation will invest ₹24.49 billion, or about $255.6 million, to build and operate a natural gas pipeline connecting Kochi in Kerala with Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu.

The project will create a major gas link across southern India as the country expands its natural gas network and looks to increase the use of gas in its overall energy mix.

424.65-Km Pipeline to Connect Southern India

The planned pipeline will stretch 424.65 kilometres and pass through Kochi, Kanyakumari and Thoothukudi.

The pipeline will have an overall capacity of 6.84 million standard cubic metres per day, or MMSCMD. It will also include a common carrier capacity of 1.71 MMSCMD.

The route is expected to improve the movement of natural gas between important locations in Kerala and Tamil Nadu while supporting the expansion of gas-based infrastructure in southern India.

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Indian Oil Investment in Gas Infrastructure

Indian Oil's ₹24.49-billion investment comes as India continues to expand its natural gas infrastructure.

Natural gas is being promoted as a cleaner fuel option for several sectors, including industries, transport and households. Expanding pipeline networks can help improve access to gas and support greater use of the fuel in areas that currently depend more heavily on other energy sources.

The Kochi-Thoothukudi connection is therefore part of a wider effort to strengthen gas connectivity across the country.

Kochi to Thoothukudi Gas Route

The pipeline will link three important locations along its route:

Kochi in Kerala will serve as the northern end of the pipeline.

Kanyakumari will be an important point along the route as the pipeline moves through southern Tamil Nadu.

Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu will serve as the southern destination of the proposed connection.

The 424.65-km network is designed to improve regional access to natural gas and expand the infrastructure needed to transport the fuel.

What the Project Means for India's Energy Network

Greater pipeline connectivity can help create a wider market for natural gas by connecting supply sources with industrial and commercial demand centres.

The project also comes as India seeks to raise the role of natural gas in its energy mix. Better transportation infrastructure can support industries and other users that want reliable access to gas.

The investment by Indian Oil adds to the company's role in expanding energy infrastructure across the country.