Supreme Court orders status quo on GAIL pipeline in Tamil Nadu.

The Supreme Court directed that status quo be maintained in Tamil Nadu on a proposed 310 km GAIL pipeline that would carry imported gas from Kochi to the national grid. The pipeline is being opposed by local farmers and the state government.

The state government has opposed the pipeline and has instead suggested that it run parallel to a national highway along which land was available on both sides. GAIL has refused to accept the realignment.

A Madras High Court division bench had ruled against the state view, prompting Tamil Nadu to challenge November 25, 2013, ruling.

Mukul Rohtagi, appearing for the state, sought a status quo order on the ground that it was a 'delicate issue' affecting many farmers.

ET