"GAIL Announces ₹650 Crore Investment to Establish LNG Filling Stations Along National Highways"

State-owned GAIL announced on Thursday its ambitious plan to establish liquefied natural gas (LNG) retailing outlets catering primarily to medium and heavy commercial vehicles along major national highways (NHs). The Maharatna company aims to capture over 50% of the market share in this sector by 2030.

The proposed investment of ₹650 crore will facilitate the setup of LNG filling stations strategically positioned along the Golden Quadrilateral, key national highways, and mining hubs. This initiative comes as part of GAIL's broader strategy announced last August to expand LNG filling station networks, particularly targeting the long-haul and heavy-duty logistics segment.

In a filing with the BSE, the CPSE expressed confidence in the substantial growth potential of the LNG business. GAIL envisions playing a pivotal role in driving this growth trajectory, aiming to secure a market share of over 50% within the next five to six years. The transition from diesel to LNG as a transport fuel is expected to significantly reduce carbon emissions, aligning with broader sustainability objectives.

Highlighting the strategic importance of the proposed investment, GAIL emphasized its commitment to exploring opportunities for the development of LNG dispensing infrastructure and last-mile connectivity. By providing alternatives to diesel and offering fuels with lower carbon footprints, the initiative aims to cater to evolving customer preferences and contribute to the advancement of the natural gas industry's retail LNG segment.

HBL