DC Kohima leads inspection of natural gas pipeline

A site inspection was conducted on September 23 of various locations where natural gas pipeline is to be laid under Kohima district by Deputy Commissioner Kohima, B. Henok Buchem, along with Revenue Officer Kohima Kevingoto Kulnu, SDO Sechü-Zubza Imliakum Sanglir, Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL), General Manager and other officials from IGGL and the Department of Geology and Mining, DPRO Kohima and contractors of the North-East Gas Grid (NEGG) Dimapur–Imphal Pipeline Project, NHIDCL.
According to a DIPR report, IGGL officials informed that around 40% of the work in the State was expected to be completed by December 2025, while the overall completion deadline has been revised to March 2027. Contractors highlighted difficulties faced in executing the work due to multiple factors. Minor issues between NHIDCL and IGGL were also resolved on-site during the inspection.
Citing unstable Geology and apprehension of Villages, the DC stressed that the pipeline must be laid on the hill side of NH Right Of Way and cautioned that work should not be halted citing monsoon, since Kohima experiences rainfall throughout the year.
DC expressed dissatisfaction over the work progress and insufficient personnel deployment by the contractor. Contractor assured immediate deployment of additional teams for demarcation and laying of pipelines, and demarcation of re-route alignment shall be completed by October 31, 2025 and also laying of pipelines shall be completed for NH stretch where Right Of Usage was available.
DC urged contractors to devise alternative strategies for the rainy season and to ensure timely completion of works. He further assured that the district administration will support in implementation of the project and closely monitor the project’s progress.
IGGL officials expressed gratitude to the inspection team led by the Deputy Commissioner for the much-needed review of the ongoing works.
They also briefed the team on various technical processes being carried out, including stringing of pipes, welding, copper slag blasting and coating, laying of warning mesh, cathodic protection and trenching activities.
It was also highlighted that the North-East Gas Grid Project was conceived under the Hydrocarbon Vision 2030 for North East India, aimed at improving energy infrastructure and connectivity in the region.