Integrity Management and Operating Experience of Gas Pipelines in Delhi

The operation of gas pipelines in utility corridor of a metropolitan city in a developing country has unique challenges. Through this paper, I would like to discuss the threats and mitigation measures in city area pipelines so as to ensure Pipeline Integrity. Excavations keep occurring because of various developmental activities. Construction of Flyovers, roads and subways disturb the pipeline route constantly necessitating Shifting / lowering of operating pipelines. Fault rectification by other agencies sharing the corridor, and proximity of High Voltage lines have also led to incidents resulting in gas leakage. Pipeline Integrity Surveys have been carried out in Delhi area and based on their recommendations, as well as a result of analysis of various incidents that have occurred in the past, a mitigation plan was developed. All the points were complied to ensure the safety and Integrity of pipelines. As can be seen from the various case studies of the past, often risky situations arise due to absence of proper layout design of underground facilities. Liaising with utility corridor agencies and appointing a central regulator for utility corridor, mapping and allocating work permits in the corridor with the help of Geographical Information System (GIS) and other advanced mapping and remote sensors, could become an effective solution. GAIL has developed a GIS for Delhi area pipelines which is proving very useful. To ensure the integrity and safety of the pipeline, a proactive approach is required. Integrity management of Pipelines is a continuous process. Evaluation has to be done constantly and newer steps should be taken each time if required.