Raxual-Amlekhgunj Petroleum Pipeline Project
Progress in Nepal
The development of an underground network to transport petroleum products from Raxual in India to Amlekhgunj in Nepal is making significant progress. The project, led by the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC), aims to install a 37.35-kilometer gas pipeline. As of now, 50% of the installation work has been completed, covering a 19-kilometer stretch on the Nepal side.
Environmental Considerations
Project chief Bhanubhakta Khanal has confirmed that the NOC has received permission from the Forest Ministry to remove trees along the pipeline route. The Nepal Timber Corporation will handle the tree removal, and the NOC will compensate the Ministry for the environmental impact. A total of 5,888 trees within the Parsa Wildlife Reserve need to be cleared, affecting a 10-kilometer forest area.
Financial Investment
The project, which began in April, is a collaborative effort between Nepal and India, with a total investment of Indian Rupees 2.75 billion. The Indian Government is contributing Rs 2 billion, while Nepal will cover the remaining costs.
Doubts Revealed
Raxual-Amlekhgunj -: Raxual is a town in India, and Amlekhgunj is a place in Nepal. The pipeline connects these two places to transport petroleum.
Petroleum Pipeline -: A petroleum pipeline is a long tube used to transport oil or gas from one place to another. It helps in moving fuel quickly and safely.
Joint Venture -: A joint venture is when two or more parties work together on a project. In this case, Nepal and India are working together to build the pipeline.
Parsa Wildlife Reserve -: Parsa Wildlife Reserve is a protected area in Nepal where many animals and plants live. The project needs to clear some trees here, which means cutting them down.
Nepal Oil Corporation -: Nepal Oil Corporation is a company in Nepal that deals with oil and fuel. They are responsible for managing the pipeline project on Nepal’s side.
INR -: INR stands for Indian Rupees, which is the currency used in India. It is used to measure the cost of the project.