The Friendship Pipeline, inaugurated just last year, has facilitated the import of 42,000 tons of diesel valued at $34 million (INR 282 crore) from India to Bangladesh. Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma made this announcement during the inauguration of the Liaison Office of Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) in Dhaka on Monday.
The Friendship Pipeline Project, jointly inaugurated virtually by the prime ministers of India and Bangladesh on March 18, 2023, marks the first cross-border pipeline dedicated to supplying petroleum products to Bangladesh. With a capacity to transport One Million Metric Tonnes Per Annum (MMTPA) of High-Speed Diesel, the pipeline has been completed at a total estimated cost of over INR 375 crore, with more than INR 285 crore allocated for the construction of the Bangladesh portion under a Government of India grant.
The efficient completion of the pipeline has streamlined the cross-border supply of High-Speed Diesel, offering a faster and more economical solution with a minimal carbon footprint. This initiative establishes a sustainable, reliable, and cost-effective method for transporting High-Speed Diesel to Bangladesh.
Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma expressed satisfaction with the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) taking ownership and independently operating the pipeline. He highlighted that the last four consignments of High-Speed Diesel were successfully managed by BPC, showcasing their capability in handling the pipeline operations.
Verma emphasized the positive impact of the Friendship Pipeline on bilateral relations, citing the growth in trade, economic engagement, and connectivity links between India and Bangladesh. The inauguration of the liaison office for NRL is expected to further enhance collaborations with Bangladesh authorities in the power and energy sector, fostering continued growth in this crucial partnership.
The Indian High Commissioner concluded by noting the unprecedented progress in relations between India and Bangladesh over the past decade, with the Friendship Pipeline serving as a testament to the growing cooperation, particularly in the vital power and energy sector.
