The news with regard to start of work on 175 kilometres long Gurdaspur-Jammu Tawi Natural Gas Pipeline Project has kindled lots of hopes among the people of J&K because reportedly on completion of this project, the need to bring home LPG cylinders will be eliminated completely giving a sigh of relief to almost all the households falling under this project. Besides eliminating the need for households to rely on LPG cylinders, this facility is going to offer significant relief to families who currently face the inconvenience of frequent cylinder deliveries, high costs, and the hazards associated with vessels containing fuel gas. What is more promising is the fact that soon after completion of this project for Jammu, the edifice will be further extended to provide similar services in the Valley.
There is no doubt in the fact that this is like a dream coming true although it took a long time. There are places in Delhi, where such service of natural gas coming direct to homes through pipes was started long back but for J&K, the delay is justified due to over three decades long terrorism and turmoil, and other reasons as well.
The aforesaid project is expected to supply domestic gas to Jammu households by 2026. One can say that natural gas is a much cleaner alternative compared to traditional fuels like wood and coal, and the kerosene, which now has become out of use. As the natural gas will reach households eliminating use of conventional fuels, it is likely that air quality will improve, pollution will be contained, and the broader goal of environmental sustainability would be achieved.
Taking cue from areas having this facility one can say that pipeline gas is safer as compared to vessels containing LPG as the latter are prone to leakage and even explosions in case proper precaution is not taken.
The aforesaid project will surely boost the local economy by providing a reliable source of energy for businesses and industries in the region. Consistent and affordable access to natural gas will help industries to expand operations, leading to job creation and enhanced economic activity, which is the need of the hour.
The extension of this pipeline system to the Valley will offer similar benefits to the Kashmir Valley, a region that has long faced challenges in terms of energy access. While it may have taken longer than expected, the relief which this project will offer to people is certainly worth the wait.
