Gujarat State Petronet (GSPL) has commissioned a new natural gas pipeline connecting the five million tonne per annum (MTPA) LNG import terminal at Chhara in Gir-Somnath district to the national gas grid.

The Rs 650 crore project has a capacity to transport 18 million standard cubic mtrs. per day (MSCMD) of natural gas and was officially commissioned on 20 March, 2025. The pipeline passes near the eco-sensitive Gir National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary. Despite its proximity to the reserve, GSPL has ensured that environmental considerations were taken into account during development

The Chhara LNG terminal, operated by HPCL LNG (a subsidiary of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd.), imports liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is regasified and distributed to industries such as power plants and fertilizer units. The facility is a key part of India’s strategy to increase the use of natural gas as a cleaner energy source.

In September 2023, the EPC contract for the 36-inch diameter pipeline from Chhara to Lothpur in Amreli district was awarded to Mumbai-based Ace Pipeline Contracts. Advanced construction techniques, including automatic welding, were employed to expedite project completion.