India has completed its first large-scale offshore decommissioning project with the successful removal of mid and south Tapti field facilities. The project was led by the Panna-Mukta and Tapti (PMT) joint venture, comprising Shell (through BGEPIL), Reliance Industries (RIL), and Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), under a production sharing contract with the Government of India.
The decommissioning involved the removal of five wellhead platforms and associated subsea pipelines and the plugging and abandonment of 38 wells. These operations were conducted in accordance with an approved decommissioning plan, with a focus on safety, environmental protection, and regulatory compliance. Production from the Tapti fields ceased in March 2016.
As part of the implementation strategy, major contracts were awarded to Indian companies in alignment with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. Larsen & Toubro (L&T) executed the offshore dismantling operations, while Chowgule Shipyard (CLSPL) is overseeing onshore dismantling at its facility in Ratnagiri. Offshore work has been completed, with onshore activities currently in progress.
Nipun Pradhan, Managing Director, BGEPIL and GM Shell Upstream India, said, “The safe and successful completion of the Tapti offshore project is a landmark moment for India’s offshore energy sector. This project sets a new benchmark for responsible decommissioning, made possible by global expertise, strong collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to safety and sustainability. Shell is proud to be part of this historic journey alongside our partners Reliance, ONGC, and the Government of India.”
The Tapti project is regarded as a foundational step in developing India’s regulatory and operational framework for offshore decommissioning. The framework was shaped in consultation with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons, and the Oil Industry Safety Directorate.
“The safe and responsible offshore decommissioning by the PMT JV marks a significant step forward for India’s energy sector. From the outset, the JV partners worked tirelessly to strengthen local supply chains and enhance the technical and safety capabilities of Indian contractors especially for offshore dismantling activities. This project has successfully delivered on the Indian government’s ambition of ‘Make and Break in India’,” said Sanjay Barman Roy, President, E&P, Reliance Industries.
Globally, offshore decommissioning is a complex process involving multiple stakeholders, evolving regulations, and logistical challenges. The Tapti project is expected to inform future decommissioning initiatives in India, particularly as more offshore assets are near the end of their production life.