The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has officially authorized Chhara Port in Gujarat for the import of liquefied natural gas (LNG) by sea, a significant move toward enhancing India’s energy security. This certification empowers Simar Ports Private Limited (SPPL) to oversee LNG operations, aligning with Rule 16(1) of the Petroleum Rules, 2002. The decision responds to the urgent need for gas and petroleum imports for public benefit, with operations at Chhara Port adhering to the Navigational Safety at Ports Committee (NSPC) guidelines.
The approval is effective for three years, from May 19, 2025, to May 18, 2028. The Union Government had previously granted Chhara Port permission, in November 2024, to handle various goods, including exports and imports. Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) operates Chhara Port through HPCL LNG Limited (HPLNG), a fully owned subsidiary formed after HPCL acquired the remaining stake in SP Ports Private Limited in March 2021.
HPLNG aims to develop and manage a greenfield LNG terminal equipped for receiving, unloading, storing, and regasifying LNG, contributing to the national gas grid. The terminal is situated in Chhara Village, Gir-Somnath district, Gujarat, within the all-weather direct berthing limits of Chhara Port.
