In pursuance of powers conferred by Explanation 1 below sub rule 1 of Rule 4 of the Petroleum and Minerals Pipelines Acquisition of Right of User in Lands Rules

## Policy Analysis Report: Termination of Operations for Ethane Pipeline in Gujarat, India **1. Executive Summary:** This report analyzes a notification issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India, regarding the termination of operations for an Ethane pipeline laid by Ms Reliance Gas Pipelines Limited (RGPL) in Surat District, Gujarat. The notification, published on January 1, 2021, declares specific termination dates for pipeline operations in various villages within the district. This report aims to provide a clear overview of the notification, its objectives, key changes, and potential impact based solely on the provided text. **2. Introduction:** The purpose of this report is to provide an informative analysis of a notification published in the Gazette of India concerning the termination of operations for an Ethane pipeline in Surat District, Gujarat. The analysis is based solely on the information provided in the attached government policy text. **3. Policy Overview:** This notification operates as an *amendment* under the framework of the Petroleum and Minerals Pipelines Acquisition of Right of User in Land Act, 1962 and the Petroleum and Minerals Pipelines Acquisition of Right of User in Lands Rules, 1963. It specifically concerns the termination of operations related to an Ethane pipeline. * **Core Objective(s):** The core objective of this notification is to officially declare the dates of termination of operations for the Ethane pipeline laid by RGPL in specific villages within Surat District, Gujarat. **4. Background and Rationale:** The notification serves as an official record of the completion or cessation of pipeline operations in the designated areas. The likely reason *for this specific amendment* is to formally acknowledge and document the termination of RGPL's Ethane pipeline operations in certain areas of Surat District, potentially due to the completion of the pipeline's intended lifespan or a change in operational strategy. This change assures regulatory compliance and provides clarity for land use considerations. **5. Key Provisions / Changes:** This notification acts as an amendment, specifically focusing on altering the operational status of the pipeline within the defined geographic areas. * **Original Policy Part Being Changed:** This notification amends the existing operational parameters established under the Petroleum and Minerals Pipelines Acquisition of Right of User in Land Act, 1962 and its associated rules by declaring termination dates for specific pipeline operations. * **New Rule/Provision:** The *new* provision is the declaration of specific dates on which pipeline operations ceased in designated villages in Surat District, as detailed in the schedule. For example, in Umarachhi village of Olpad Tehsil, the termination date of operations is declared as June 11, 2018, based on notifications 2666E and 2938E. * **Effect of the Change:** The effect of this change is to officially recognize the cessation of pipeline operations in the specified villages, releasing the land from its designated purpose under the Act and related rules. **6. Target Audience and Stakeholders:** The primary target audience and stakeholders are: * **Ms Reliance Gas Pipelines Limited (RGPL):** As the owner and operator of the Ethane pipeline, RGPL is directly affected by the declaration of termination of operations. * **Landowners in Surat District:** Landowners in the specific villages (Umarachhi, Bolav, Shekhpur, Kathor, Khadsad, Waktana) within Surat District where the pipeline operations have been terminated. * **Government of India, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas:** The issuing authority of the notification and responsible for overseeing the pipeline operations. * **Local Authorities in Gujarat:** Relevant local authorities in Surat District responsible for land management and infrastructure development. **7. Implementation Aspects (Inferred):** * **Responsible Agency/Bodies:** * Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India. * H.R. Kalaiya, GAS authorized by the Government of India, acting as the Competent Authority. * Ms Reliance Gas Pipelines Limited (RGPL). * **Timelines and Procedures:** The notification specifies the dates of termination of operations for each village. The process involves consultation with RGPL, declaration of termination dates, and publication in the Gazette of India. **8. Expected Outcomes / Impact of Changes:** The likely intended outcome *of these specific changes* introduced by the amendment is to: * Provide clarity on the operational status of the Ethane pipeline in Surat District. * Formally release land from its designated pipeline use, potentially allowing landowners to utilize the land for other purposes, subject to local regulations. * Facilitate administrative and regulatory closure of the pipeline project in the specified areas. **9. Conclusion:** This notification issued by the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas formally declares the termination of operations for Ms Reliance Gas Pipelines Limited's Ethane pipeline in specific villages of Surat District, Gujarat. This declaration serves as a significant step in regulatory compliance, land management, and providing clarity to stakeholders regarding the operational status of the pipeline infrastructure. The amendment ensures an up-to-date regulatory framework that reflects the current status of the pipeline and its impact on land use.

Key Entities Referenced