West Bengal

IIE Digital Desk : Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate a major City Gas Distribution (CGD) project worth ₹1,010 crore in the Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts of West Bengal. The announcement was made during his recent address at the Vikas Manch, a platform dedicated to highlighting development initiatives across the country. This ambitious infrastructure project is expected to significantly enhance access to cleaner energy sources in these districts, bringing substantial benefits to households and businesses alike.

The City Gas Distribution project aims to provide piped natural gas (PNG) to homes and compressed natural gas (CNG) to vehicles, thereby promoting the use of cleaner fuel alternatives in a region that has historically had limited access to such resources. With the increasing focus on environmental sustainability and energy efficiency, this project aligns with the government’s broader objective of reducing pollution and promoting greener energy options.

Valued at over ₹1,000 crore, the project involves the laying of extensive pipeline networks and the establishment of distribution systems to ensure reliable and affordable gas supply. This will not only improve the quality of life for residents by offering a convenient and economical fuel option but also support local businesses by lowering their operational costs through access to cleaner energy.

The initiative is part of the central government’s vision to expand the natural gas infrastructure across India, thereby diversifying the country’s energy mix and reducing dependence on traditional fuels like coal and petroleum products. The expansion of CGD networks in districts like Alipurduar and Cooch Behar is crucial for achieving this goal, especially in the eastern regions that have lagged behind in energy infrastructure development.

During his speech at the Vikas Manch, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, ensuring that development reaches every corner of the country, including remote and underdeveloped areas. The CGD project in these North Bengal districts is a reflection of this vision, aimed at uplifting the socio-economic status of the local population through modern energy solutions.

The project is also expected to generate employment opportunities during its construction and operational phases, further contributing to the region’s economic development. Officials involved in the project have highlighted its potential to reduce environmental pollution by encouraging the adoption of natural gas, which burns cleaner than conventional fossil fuels.

Local communities have welcomed the announcement, viewing it as a significant step toward modernizing their energy infrastructure and improving living standards. Access to piped natural gas will alleviate many issues related to fuel availability and safety, particularly for domestic cooking and transportation needs.

The inauguration of the City Gas Distribution project by the Prime Minister will mark a pivotal moment for the districts of Alipurduar and Cooch Behar. It underscores the government’s proactive approach to addressing regional disparities in energy access and promoting sustainable development.

As this project moves forward, it is expected to serve as a model for similar initiatives in other parts of the country, supporting India’s transition toward a cleaner and more efficient energy future. The residents of these districts can look forward to the tangible benefits of improved energy access, economic growth, and a healthier environment as a result of this significant investment.