The controversial Mountain Valley Pipeline, a $7.85 billion monument to fossil fuels, is poised to pump methane gas across pristine landscapes after a last-minute regulatory blessing. Despite facing fierce opposition, multiple safety scares, and soaring costs, the project appears to be a prime example of special interests trumping environmental concerns.

This 303-mile behemoth has been plagued by delays since breaking ground in 2018. The initial price tag of $3.5 billion has ballooned alongside the outrage from environmental groups. Their cries about disrupted ecosystems, endangered species, and the folly of clinging to fossil fuels seemingly fell on deaf ears.

Opponents point out the absurdity of approving a new gas pipeline at a time when the urgency of climate change demands a rapid shift towards renewable energy. But their legal challenges, citing environmental impact and permitting irregularities, were repeatedly swatted down.

First, the courts intervened, siding with environmentalists. Then, in a move shrouded in political wrangling, Congress strong-armed the project through by stripping a key court of its jurisdiction and attaching approval to a debt ceiling deal. This maneuver reeked of backroom deals and prioritizing corporate profits over environmental well-being.

Even with the courts neutralized, the pipeline faced further delays due to contractor issues and challenging terrain. Yet, with a seemingly desperate plea, Equitrans, the leading partner in the project, is pushing for immediate service. Their justification? Pre-arranged contracts with gas shippers.

The Mountain Valley Pipeline approval raises troubling questions. Did safety concerns take a backseat to economic interests? Was the project greenlit despite a burst pipe incident last month, highlighting potential construction flaws?

As gas begins to flow, one thing is certain: the fight for a clean energy future is far from over. This pipeline approval feels like a victory lap for the fossil fuel industry, but it may prove to be a short-lived one.