Construction of a 119.5-kilometer natural gas pipeline connecting the Indian states Tripura and Mizoram is now 45 percent complete, officials announced Thursday.

The project, which is being executed by Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGCL) as part of the North East Natural Gas Pipeline Grid, is expected to be finished by December 2027.

Once the Sihhmui terminal is operational, Tripura Natural Gas Corporation Limited (TNGCL) will begin providing direct household gas connections to residents within Aizawl.

Mizoram Civil Supplies Minister B. Lalchhanzova visited the Tripura capital of Agartala on Wednesday to inspect the ongoing work. During the visit, he met with representatives from TNGCL and the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC).

He also toured a local CNG station and a residential complex where roughly 330 households already utilize piped gas.

Lalchhanzova characterized the project as a significant milestone for Mizoram’s infrastructure, stating that it would ensure an adequate gas supply at more affordable prices for citizens.

"Apart from domestic consumption, it will also be effectively used for commercial, industrial, transport, and other purposes," the minister said in a statement. He added that the project is expected to generate local employment and encourage the establishment of major industries within the state.

Lalchhanzova urged both IGCL and TNGCL to maintain a diligent work schedule to ensure the pipeline is commissioned within the specified 2027 timeframe.