GAIL to stop importing LNG at Ratnagiri terminal due to annual monsoon shutdown

18 May 2023 , 01:29 AM

State-owned GAIL has stopped importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) from its 5 million tonnes/year Ratnagiri plant from mid-may until September end, as per various reports.

As per the reports, GAIL annually shuts the Maharashtra plant due to monsoon season as rain and high tides make operations difficult without a breakwater. However, the breakwater is expected to be built by next year. This will help the plan in avoiding shutting during monsoon season.

The company received its last LNG cargo at the Dabhol port on May 11, according to Refinitiv Eikon data.

The Maharashtra Maritime Board has ordered restricted operations by inland vessels during ‘four weather season’ from May 26 to August 31, citing ‘safety of life and environment’, according to a notice seen by Reuters.

GAIL delays the import of LNG to October as seas remain rough during September, the reports said.