Aizawl: Mizoram is set to transition to Piped Natural Gas (PNG) by early 2028, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Minister B. Lalchhanzova said on Thursday.
The Minister stated that work on the Tripura–Mizoram natural gas pipeline is progressing rapidly, with around 45% of the project already completed. The 119.5-km pipeline, being executed by Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL) under the North East Natural Gas Pipeline Grid, is scheduled for completion by December 2027.
Speaking at a sensitisation workshop on City Gas Distribution in Aizawl, Lalchhanzova outlined the state’s roadmap for shifting from Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) cylinders to PNG-based infrastructure. The workshop was jointly organised by Tripura Natural Gas Company Limited (TNGCL) and the Mizoram Food and Civil Supplies Department, and focused on addressing public concerns while highlighting the economic and technical aspects of the project.
Lalchhanzova said that once IGGL completes the pipeline up to Sihhmui by March 2027, TNGCL will begin household connections in Aizawl and Mamit. The PNG system is expected to become fully operational for consumers by early 2028.
Referring to his recent visit to Agartala, the Minister noted that Tripura has successfully used PNG for more than three decades, with over 60,000 consumers. He said Mizoram could draw lessons from Tripura’s experience in building and sustaining gas-based urban infrastructure.
Highlighting the potential benefits, Lalchhanzova said the transition to PNG would significantly reduce operational costs for the hospitality sector, particularly hotels and restaurants, while contributing to broader economic growth. He also urged citizens to see the project as part of the State’s long-term development trajectory.
TNGCL Managing Director Pralay Patra described the initiative as an important environmental step. He said the project aligns with the Centre’s target of increasing the share of natural gas in India’s energy mix to 15% by 2030, adding that PNG offers a cleaner alternative to carbon-intensive fuels.
The Tripura–Mizoram pipeline originates at the Panisagar receiving terminal in Tripura. It passes through several Mizoram villages, including Kanhmun, Zawlnuam, Kawrthah, Tuidam and Darlak, before reaching Mamit. From there, it will extend towards Lengte and terminate at the proposed Sihhmui receiving terminal, located about 21 km from Aizawl.
According to IGGL officials, construction work is advancing steadily, with welding work at 52% completion and pipe lowering at 40%.