Kandla: GAIL (India) Limited, Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) and DNV (Det Norske Veritas) have signed a Tripartite Cooperation Agreement to explore the development of an LNG bunkering facility at Kandla Port.
The agreement, signed on August 21, 2026, brings together GAIL’s expertise in LNG, DPA’s strategic port infrastructure and DNV’s global technical capabilities in maritime safety and LNG bunkering.
GAIL, DPA and DNV Join Hands for LNG Bunkering
The partnership aims to explore the development of the infrastructure and operational ecosystem required for LNG bunkering at Kandla Port.
The collaboration combines the strengths of all three organisations:
- GAIL: Expertise in LNG handling, supply and infrastructure.
- Deendayal Port Authority: Strategic location and port infrastructure at Kandla.
- DNV: Global technical expertise in maritime safety standards and LNG bunkering operations.
The initiative is expected to support the adoption of cleaner marine fuels and contribute to India’s efforts towards greener and more sustainable shipping.
Agreement Signed by Senior Officials
The Tripartite Cooperation Agreement was signed at Kandla by senior representatives of the three organisations.
The signatories were:
- Sushil Kumar, Chairman, Deendayal Port Authority
- Anant Khobragade, Zonal Chief General Manager, GAIL Gujarat Zonal Office
- Ajay Kumar Singh, Business Lead – Marine Advisory, DNV India
The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation among the three organisations in exploring LNG bunkering opportunities at Kandla Port.
LNG Bunkering Infrastructure and Supply Chain in Focus
The partnership will examine the complete ecosystem required to establish and operate LNG bunkering facilities.
The areas of cooperation include:
- Development of LNG bunkering infrastructure
- Establishment of a reliable LNG supply chain
- Development of a comprehensive safety framework
- Creation of operational systems for efficient bunkering activities
- Maritime safety and technical standards
The collaboration is aimed at assessing the requirements for a safe, reliable and efficient LNG bunkering ecosystem at Kandla.
Partnership Supports Greener Maritime Transport
LNG is being explored as a cleaner marine fuel option as the shipping industry works towards reducing emissions and adopting more sustainable energy solutions. The proposed LNG bunkering initiative at Kandla could support the availability of cleaner marine fuels and strengthen India’s maritime infrastructure.
The collaboration between GAIL, DPA and DNV also reflects efforts to develop capabilities that can support India’s long-term vision for greener and more sustainable shipping.
About GAIL
GAIL (India) Limited is India’s leading natural gas transmission and distribution company and a Maharatna public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Its operations span natural gas transmission, marketing, processing, petrochemicals and other energy-related businesses, making it a key player in India’s gas-based economy.
