India’s New Energy Highway to Run Beneath the Arabian Sea: Plans Accelerate for a 2,000-km Gas Pipeline from Oman to Gujarat
A ₹40,000-crore mega-project set to transform India's energy future by establishing a direct gas corridor with Gulf nations,
New Delhi. India is preparing to take a historic step toward energy security. Amidst rising tensions in West Asia and challenges surrounding global energy supplies, an ambitious plan to lay an undersea gas pipeline from Oman to Gujarat has gained fresh momentum.
This proposed pipeline, traversing the depths of the Arabian Sea, will span approximately 2,000 kilometers. It will enable the direct transport of natural gas from Oman to India's western coast, aiming to ensure a secure and reliable long-term gas supply for the country.
Mega-Project Back in Focus After Three Decades
First proposed nearly 30 years ago, the project could not proceed at the time due to cost and technical challenges. Now, in light of shifting global dynamics and the growing need for energy security, the initiative is being revived. Marine surveys and technical studies related to the project have already been completed.
Gas Network to be Laid at a Depth of 3,000 Meters
This could rank among the world's most challenging subsea gas pipeline projects. Parts of the proposed route may run at depths exceeding 3,000 meters in the Arabian Sea, requiring advanced technology and specialized engineering to lay the pipeline.
Investment of ₹40,000 Crore; Major Benefits for India
The deep-sea gas pipeline is estimated to cost around ₹40,000 crore. Upon completion, India will secure a direct and stable supply of natural gas, while a new energy corridor will be established between the Gulf region and India.
Helping Mitigate the Risk of Energy Crises
India currently imports a significant portion of its oil and gas requirements. Tensions in the Gulf region pose a risk of disrupting supplies transported via maritime routes. The new pipeline could play a pivotal role in further securing India's energy sources.
Plan for cost-effective gas delivery
According to preliminary estimates, the cost of transporting gas via the pipeline could range from approximately $2 to $2.25 per MMBtu. Experts believe that this project could prove to be a game-changer for India's energy strategy in the coming years.
