PM Launches City Gas Project to Power Bengal Homes
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday laid the foundation stone for a ₹1,010 crore City Gas Distribution (CGD) project in West Bengal’s Alipurduar and Cooch Behar districts, aimed at delivering piped natural gas to over 2.5 lakh households.
Positioned as a significant step in expanding energy access and regional development, the CGD network will also cater to commercial and industrial users. Under the government’s minimum work programme, 19 compressed natural gas (CNG) stations are also planned, strengthening clean fuel infrastructure in North Bengal. Speaking at a public gathering, Modi emphasised that the initiative is more than just a pipeline project. “This marks a shift toward doorstep delivery of government schemes. Clean, affordable energy will now be available directly to homes through this pipeline,” he said.
The Prime Minister framed the move as part of India’s broader development goals. “As India advances towards becoming a Viksit Rashtra, Bengal’s role in this journey is crucial. Infrastructure, innovation, and investment will continue to receive central support in the state,” he added.The project is expected to boost local employment, reduce dependency on conventional fuels, and integrate the region into the country’s clean energy map. While rollout timelines were not specified, initial groundwork is set to begin soon.
The launch comes amid growing emphasis on regional energy equity and improved urban-rural infrastructure, especially in Tier-2 districts like Alipurduar and Cooch Behar, where fuel access has remained a challenge.
