India's Oil & Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has initiated a major tender for the laying and replacement of up to 1000 kilometres of subsea pipelines off the country's west coast. The work is intended to support the redevelopment of maturing offshore assets, including the Mumbai High, Neelam & Heera, and Bassein & Satellite fields, to sustain their production levels.

Contract Scope and Structure

The extensive pipeline replacement project is expected to be executed over five years or seasons. While it represents a long-term, integrated requirement, the current tender specifically seeks a marine spread contractor for the pipeline installation activities on a rate contract basis. The operator, ONGC, will separately manage other key components such as the procurement and coating of line pipes and riser pipes, which will be supplied to the contractor. The workscope includes not only the laying and replacement of pipelines and risers but also the dismantling, removal, and disposal of old risers and riser clamps.

Bid Process and Timeline

Technical and commercial offers for the contract are anticipated to be submitted in April, with an award expected later in the year. The bidding is likely to attract leading domestic and international pipelay contractors, though specific names were not confirmed.

Context of Ongoing Pipeline Replacement Projects

This new tender follows ONGC's ongoing Pipeline Replacement Project (PRP) phases. Previously, the company selected UAE's Lamprell as the preferred contractor for PRP-9, which involves the engineering, procurement, construction, and installation (EPCI) of 197.5 kilometres of pipelines across 15 segments. This award succeeded the PRP-8 contracts placed in 2024. PRP-8 awards included a 14.86 billion Indian rupee ($170 million) contract to Mazagon Dock for completion by early 2026, and a contract to Larsen & Toubro for the EPCI of 129 kilometres of subsea pipelines and associated modifications.