In a milestone for India’s energy sector, Shell, Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), and Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) have completed the country’s first offshore facilities decommissioning project, involving the safe dismantling of infrastructure at the mid and south Tapti gas fields.
The Tapti project, executed by the Panna-Mukta and Tapti (PMT) joint venture, saw the removal of five wellhead platforms, associated pipelines, and the plugging and abandonment of 38 wells. Production at the fields ceased in 2016.
“The safe and successful completion of the Tapti offshore project is a landmark moment for India’s offshore energy sector,” said Nipun Pradhan, Managing Director of BGEPIL and GM, Shell Upstream India. “This project sets a new benchmark for responsible decommissioning, made possible by global expertise, strong collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to safety and sustainability.”
Sanjay Barman Roy, President of Exploration and Production at Reliance, said the project delivered on the Indian government’s “Make and Break in India” initiative, with local firms Larsen & Toubro and Chowgule Shipyard handling offshore and onshore work, respectively.
“This first-of-its-kind large-scale offshore decommissioning underscores ONGC’s commitment to responsible energy practices,” said Pankaj Kumar, Director (Production), ONGC.
Executed in close collaboration with India’s Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Directorate General of Hydrocarbons, and Oil Industry Safety Directorate, the project is seen as a template for future offshore dismantling operations in India.
The PMT joint venture includes ONGC (40%), Reliance (30%), and BG Exploration & Production India Ltd (Shell, 30%). Dismantling activities at Chowgule’s Ratnagiri facility are ongoing.
The project also played a key role in shaping India’s emerging regulatory framework for offshore decommissioning amid the global energy transition.
Business News Asia