GAIL’s ‘Meridian Spirit’ arrives at Dabhol

India’s first LNG Cargo from USA under long term contract of GAIL (India) Limited was received at Dabhol, on Friday. This marks a new beginning in the Indo-USA energy partnership and trade. Commencement of LNG supplies under the Henry Hub indexed contracts is significant for GAIL and the Indian markets as well. GAIL’s first charter hired vessel - MV Meridian Spirit, arrived after 25 days voyage and docked for unloading in the august presence of Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister, Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. Patrick Santillo, Minister Counselor for Commercial Affairs, US Embassy and B C Tripathi, CMD, GAIL were also present on this momentous occasion.

Speaking on the occasion, Pradhan said that the government was working towards making India a gas based economy. He added that the arrival of the first LNG cargo from US was a significant milestone in the direction of realising adequate availability of natural gas through imports from diversified sources. He further stated that a shift towards a gas based economy would require augmenting domestic production as well as imports. He added that adequate investments in natural gas infrastructure including pipeline, LNG import terminal and City Gas Distribution network was also a focus area for the Government.