India Achieves Landmark Milestone with First Offshore Facilities Decommissioning Project
Chennai: The Panna-Mukta and Tapti (PMT) joint venture partners, comprising Shell, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), have successfully completed India’s first offshore facilities decommissioning project.
The project involved the safe removal of mid and south Tapti field facilities, including five wellhead platforms and associated pipelines. A total of 38 wells were plugged and abandoned, and the facilities were dismantled at the onshore yard.
Nipun Pradhan, Managing Director, BGEPIL and GM Shell Upstream India said, “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, E&P, Reliance Industries Limited said, “The project has successfully delivered on the Indian Government’s ambition of ‘Make and Break in India’.” “This first-of-its-kind large-scale offshore decommissioning underscores ONGC’s commitment to responsible energy practices.” said Pankaj Kumar, Director (Production), ONGC.
The Tapti decommissioning project demonstrates India’s growing capabilities in offshore energy infrastructure and sets a benchmark for future offshore energy transitions. The project was executed in line with global best practices and adapted for Indian conditions, with major contracts awarded to Indian companies Larsen and Toubro (L&T) and Chowgule Shipyard (CLSPL).
