Numaligarh Refinery Limited (nrl), Golaghat - Fueling Growth And Sustainability In Assam

Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) is one of the most prominent energy enterprises in Northeast India, strategically located in Golaghat district, Assam. Established in accordance with the Assam Accord, NRL has played a crucial role in boosting the region’s economic development, infrastructure growth, and industrial progress.
NRL was incorporated in 1993 as a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Government of India. It was commissioned in 2000 with an initial refining capacity of 3 million metric tonnes per annum (MMTPA). Over the years, NRL has gained national recognition for its high operational standards, clean fuel production, and commitment to sustainable practices.
NRL is often referred to as the "Assam Accord Refinery" because it was one of the key industrial promises made to the people of Assam as part of the historic 1985 Assam Accord.
NRL is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure, making it one of the most efficient refineries in India. Key facilities include:
Crude oil distillation units
Hydrocracker and hydro-treater units
Sulphur recovery units
Wax production plant, unique in the region
Product pipelines, including the Numaligarh-Siliguri pipeline
The refinery is well-integrated with rail and road networks for smooth transportation of crude oil and finished products across Northeast India and beyond.
NRL is currently undergoing a massive expansion project to increase its refining capacity from 3 MMTPA to 9 MMTPA, under the ‘NRL Vision 2040’ initiative. This project includes the construction of a crude oil pipeline from Paradip (Odisha) to Numaligarh, and a product pipeline to Siliguri.
This expansion is expected to:
Create massive employment opportunities
Boost regional industrialization
Strengthen energy security in Northeast India
NRL is known for its commitment to environmental conservation and corporate social responsibility (CSR). Its green initiatives include:
Massive afforestation and bio-diversity projects
Sustainable wastewater and emission management
Support for education, healthcare, and livelihood in nearby rural areas
Promotion of local art, culture, and sports
The refinery has received multiple awards for clean energy practices, green refinery initiatives, and excellence in CSR.
Situated near Kaziranga National Park in the Numaligarh area of Golaghat district, the refinery not only contributes to the economy but also plays a vital role in shaping local infrastructure, connectivity, and development.
NRL also contributes to the talent development of the region by:
Offering employment to engineers, scientists, and professionals
Supporting research and internships for technical institutes
Collaborating with academia and training centers
Economic Engine: Major contributor to Assam’s GDP and employment.
Energy Backbone: Enhancing fuel availability across the Northeast.
Sustainability Leader: Setting benchmarks in eco-friendly refining.
Community Partner: Uplifting lives through CSR and development programs.
If you are looking to understand Assam’s industrial growth and its pivotal role in India’s energy map, Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) is a name that stands tall with pride and promise.