Kandla is positioning itself for a bigger role in India’s emerging alternative marine fuel market, with GAIL (India), Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) and DNV joining forces to explore LNG bunkering at the port.
The three parties signed a Tripartite Cooperation Agreement at Kandla on August 21 to examine the development of an LNG bunkering facility and the wider ecosystem needed to support ship-to-ship or shore-based LNG fuel supply.
The agreement brings together complementary capabilities. GAIL will contribute its expertise in LNG, while DPA brings the port infrastructure and strategic location. DNV will provide technical expertise covering maritime safety and LNG bunkering operations.
The partners will look at more than the physical bunkering infrastructure. Their collaboration will cover the LNG supply chain, safety framework and operational requirements needed to establish a viable bunkering ecosystem at Kandla.
The move comes as LNG continues to seek a stronger foothold as a marine fuel in India. For Kandla, developing LNG bunkering could add another alternative fuel capability to the port as shipping moves towards lower-emission options.
The port has already been exploring other alternative marine fuels. Earlier this year, Kandla conducted India’s first methanol bunkering demonstration, highlighting its broader interest in developing alternative-fuel infrastructure.
GAIL said the LNG initiative is intended to support the adoption of cleaner marine fuels and contribute to India’s vision for greener and more sustainable shipping.
The agreement was signed by DPA Chairman Sushil Kumar, GAIL Gujarat Zonal Office ZCGM Anant Khobragade and DNV India Business Lead, Marine Advisory, Ajay Kumar Singh.
