{"id":2372,"date":"2026-08-20T11:21:30","date_gmt":"2026-08-20T11:21:30","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/?p=2372"},"modified":"2026-08-20T11:21:34","modified_gmt":"2026-08-20T11:21:34","slug":"lng-bunkering-guidelines","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/","title":{"rendered":"India&#8217;s LNG Bunkering Guidelines 2025: What Shipowners, Ports and Bunker Suppliers Need to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">India&#8217;s LNG Bunkering Guidelines 2025, issued by DGMA as Circular No. 17 of 2025, set safety, registration and documentation rules for ship-to-ship, truck-to-ship and terminal-to-ship LNG bunkering. Shipowners need IGF Code compliance, bunker suppliers need <a href=\"https:\/\/dgma.gov.in\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">DGMA<\/a> registration, and every operation needs a QRA, a safety zone and a joint bunkering plan before fuel starts moving.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_86 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Are_Indias_LNG_Bunkering_Guidelines_2025\" >What Are India&#8217;s LNG Bunkering Guidelines 2025?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#Why_Did_DGMA_Bring_In_LNG_Bunkering_Rules_Now\" >Why Did DGMA Bring In LNG Bunkering Rules Now?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#Who_Do_the_LNG_Bunkering_Guidelines_2025_Apply_To\" >Who Do the LNG Bunkering Guidelines 2025 Apply To?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Are_the_Three_Modes_of_LNG_Bunkering_in_India\" >What Are the Three Modes of LNG Bunkering in India?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#How_Do_You_Register_as_an_LNG_Bunker_Supplier_With_DGMA\" >How Do You Register as an LNG Bunker Supplier With DGMA?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Role_Do_PNGRB_and_PESO_Play_in_LNG_Bunkering\" >What Role Do PNGRB and PESO Play in LNG Bunkering?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Documents_Does_a_Port_Authority_Need_Before_Bunkering_Starts\" >What Documents Does a Port Authority Need Before Bunkering Starts?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Is_the_Difference_Between_a_Safety_Zone_and_a_Security_Zone\" >What Is the Difference Between a Safety Zone and a Security Zone?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Rules_Apply_While_LNG_Is_Actually_Being_Transferred\" >What Rules Apply While LNG Is Actually Being Transferred?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Is_a_Bunker_Delivery_Note_and_Why_Does_It_Matter\" >What Is a Bunker Delivery Note and Why Does It Matter?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Training_Do_Crew_Truck_Drivers_and_Terminal_Staff_Need\" >What Training Do Crew, Truck Drivers and Terminal Staff Need?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#Where_Can_Ships_Bunker_LNG_in_India_Right_Now\" >Where Can Ships Bunker LNG in India Right Now?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_Happens_If_Someone_Doesnt_Follow_the_Guidelines\" >What Happens If Someone Doesn&#8217;t Follow the Guidelines?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#How_Should_Shipowners_and_Bunker_Suppliers_Get_Ready\" >How Should Shipowners and Bunker Suppliers Get Ready?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_is_LNG_bunkering\" >What is LNG bunkering?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#Do_foreign-flagged_ships_have_to_follow_Indias_LNG_bunkering_guidelines\" >Do foreign-flagged ships have to follow India&#8217;s LNG bunkering guidelines?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#How_long_is_a_full-term_LNG_bunker_supplier_registration_certificate_valid\" >How long is a full-term LNG bunker supplier registration certificate valid?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#Can_a_ship_bunker_LNG_and_regular_fuel_oil_at_the_same_time\" >Can a ship bunker LNG and regular fuel oil at the same time?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#How_much_notice_does_a_port_authority_need_before_an_LNG_bunkering_operation\" >How much notice does a port authority need before an LNG bunkering operation?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#What_is_the_difference_between_an_MTIA_and_a_QRA\" >What is the difference between an MTIA and a QRA?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#Who_decides_how_big_the_safety_zone_should_be\" >Who decides how big the safety zone should be?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#How_long_must_a_Bunker_Delivery_Note_be_kept_on_record\" >How long must a Bunker Delivery Note be kept on record?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/lng-bunkering-guidelines\/#Which_standards_apply_to_LNG_bunkering_equipment_in_India\" >Which standards apply to LNG bunkering equipment in India?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_Indias_LNG_Bunkering_Guidelines_2025\"><\/span><b>What Are India&#8217;s LNG Bunkering Guidelines 2025?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">India&#8217;s LNG Bunkering Guidelines 2025 are a formal circular from the Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), numbered Circular No. 17 of 2025 and dated 5 May 2025. DGMA sits under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, and this circular is the first document to lay out a complete, India-specific rulebook for LNG bunkering, covering permitting, safety, environmental protection, workforce training and enforcement in one place.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Before this circular, India relied on general guidance such as Merchant Shipping Notice No. 3 of 2014 for bunker supplier registration and Merchant Shipping Notice No. 6 of 2024 for <a href=\"https:\/\/www.imo.org\/en\/ourwork\/safety\/pages\/igf-code.aspx\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">IGF Code<\/a> applicability. Neither was written with LNG&#8217;s specific hazards in mind. Circular No. 17 of 2025 closes that gap and gives shipowners, ports and bunker suppliers one reference point instead of several scattered ones.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Why_Did_DGMA_Bring_In_LNG_Bunkering_Rules_Now\"><\/span><b>Why Did DGMA Bring In LNG Bunkering Rules Now?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">LNG burns cleaner than conventional marine fuel. It cuts sulphur oxide, nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions, which is exactly what shipping needs as global rules on vessel emissions tighten. That much isn&#8217;t controversial.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The problem was India&#8217;s own framework hadn&#8217;t caught up. The circular itself admits LNG bunkering in India is still in an early stage of development, and that the lack of dedicated regulation created real uncertainty for shipowners, terminal operators and investors weighing whether to commit money to LNG infrastructure. High upfront costs for storage and transfer equipment, combined with safety and environmental questions nobody had formally answered, kept a lot of capital on the sidelines.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">At the same time, LNG supply in India has improved and emission standards have tightened, so interest picked back up anyway. DGMA&#8217;s goal with this circular is straightforward: give the market a predictable rulebook so bunkering infrastructure investment actually happens instead of stalling on regulatory ambiguity. If you&#8217;ve watched how India&#8217;s<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/bunkering-license-2025guidelines\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">biofuel bunkering license guidelines<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> rolled out under a separate circular, you&#8217;ll notice the same pattern: regulate first, then let the market build with confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_Do_the_LNG_Bunkering_Guidelines_2025_Apply_To\"><\/span><b>Who Do the LNG Bunkering Guidelines 2025 Apply To?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The circular&#8217;s scope is broad on purpose. It applies to all ships calling at Indian ports irrespective of flag, along with every LNG bunker supplier and every port involved in LNG bunkering. In practice, that breaks down into six groups:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Shipowners and ship managers<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> operating any vessel, Indian-flagged or foreign, that takes on LNG fuel at an Indian port<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>LNG Bunker Suppliers (LBS)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, the entity actually supplying the LNG, whatever the delivery method<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>LNG Bunker Receivers (LBR)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, the vessel receiving the fuel<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Trucking companies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> handling truck-to-ship deliveries<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Terminal operators<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> running shore-based pipeline infrastructure<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Port authorities<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, who receive documentation, approve bunkering locations and co-own risk decisions with DGMA<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">That &#8220;irrespective of flag&#8221; point matters more than it might look. A foreign-flagged container ship bunkering LNG at an Indian port follows the exact same rules as an Indian-flagged one. There&#8217;s no separate, lighter track for international traffic.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Are_the_Three_Modes_of_LNG_Bunkering_in_India\"><\/span><b>What Are the Three Modes of LNG Bunkering in India?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Three-LNG-bunkering-methods-in-India-showing-ship-to-ship-truck-to-ship-and-terminal-to-ship-LNG-fuel-transfe-1024x683.png\" alt=\"Three LNG bunkering methods in India showing ship-to-ship, truck-to-ship and terminal-to-ship LNG fuel transfe\" class=\"wp-image-2374 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Three-LNG-bunkering-methods-in-India-showing-ship-to-ship-truck-to-ship-and-terminal-to-ship-LNG-fuel-transfe-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Three-LNG-bunkering-methods-in-India-showing-ship-to-ship-truck-to-ship-and-terminal-to-ship-LNG-fuel-transfe-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Three-LNG-bunkering-methods-in-India-showing-ship-to-ship-truck-to-ship-and-terminal-to-ship-LNG-fuel-transfe-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Three-LNG-bunkering-methods-in-India-showing-ship-to-ship-truck-to-ship-and-terminal-to-ship-LNG-fuel-transfe-1200x800.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/Three-LNG-bunkering-methods-in-India-showing-ship-to-ship-truck-to-ship-and-terminal-to-ship-LNG-fuel-transfe.png 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">DGMA recognises three delivery methods, and the guidelines apply slightly different documentation to each:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Ship-to-ship bunkering<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, where a dedicated LNG bunker vessel transfers fuel directly to the receiving ship, usually alongside at berth or anchorage<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Truck-to-ship bunkering<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, where a cryogenic road tanker delivers LNG to a vessel at the quayside<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Terminal-to-ship (shore-to-ship) bunkering<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, where LNG moves through a fixed pipeline from an onshore terminal straight into the vessel&#8217;s fuel tanks<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Each mode carries its own operational envelope, and a bunker supplier&#8217;s registration certificate has to specify which modes it&#8217;s actually authorised for. A supplier approved for truck-to-ship only can&#8217;t suddenly run a ship-to-ship operation without amending their registration first.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Do_You_Register_as_an_LNG_Bunker_Supplier_With_DGMA\"><\/span><b>How Do You Register as an LNG Bunker Supplier With DGMA?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">This is usually the first practical question anyone building an LNG bunkering business asks, and it&#8217;s worth reading alongside our full breakdown of<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/bunker-supplier-registration-in-india\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">bunker supplier registration in India<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, which covers the eligibility criteria and required paperwork in more depth. At a high level, the process under Circular No. 17 of 2025 and Merchant Shipping Notice No. 3 of 2014 runs in seven stages:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Submit an application to DGMA<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, including facility design, safety procedures and an emergency response plan, following IAPH guidelines. Suppliers also need an<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/iso-9001-qms-certification\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System certification<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> for the scope of LNG bunkering, issued by a body accredited under NABCB.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Offer a practical demonstration<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> of an actual bunkering operation. DGMA can authorise the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) to witness this and file a verification report.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Receive an Interim Bunker Supplier Registration Certificate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, valid for six months, once DGMA has the IRS report and recommendation in hand.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Apply for the Initial Audit<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> at least 30 days before that interim certificate expires. By this point, the supplier needs demonstrable proof of at least two completed LNG bunkering operations.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Pass the Initial Audit<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, which IRS conducts on DGMA&#8217;s authorisation. The audit checks operational compliance and confirms the supplier has picked up any amendments DGMA or other statutory bodies issued in the meantime.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Get the full-term registration certificate<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, valid for five years, once IRS recommends it.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Keep it valid<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> through Annual Surveillance Audits, plus a repeat practical demonstration every alternate year. Skip either one and DGMA can suspend or withdraw the certificate.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">One detail that trips people up: the six-month interim window isn&#8217;t very forgiving. If your QMS certification or your practical demonstration slips, you&#8217;re racing the clock on a full registration you haven&#8217;t earned yet.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Role_Do_PNGRB_and_PESO_Play_in_LNG_Bunkering\"><\/span><b>What Role Do PNGRB and PESO Play in LNG Bunkering?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">DGMA registration isn&#8217;t the only approval an LNG bunker supplier needs. Two other regulators sit alongside it, each covering a different piece of the physical infrastructure.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The <\/span><b><a href=\"https:\/\/pngrb.gov.in\/eng-web\/\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/pngrb.gov.in\/eng-web\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB)<\/a><\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> gives a one-time approval for establishing and operating the LNG terminal itself. The <\/span><b><a href=\"https:\/\/www.peso.gov.in\/en\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.peso.gov.in\/en\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO)<\/a><\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> approves everything on the shore-based transport side, including LNG tank trucks and related infrastructure. Both approvals stay valid indefinitely, unless the supplier makes a substantive change to how the operation actually runs, in which case fresh approval is needed based on the revised setup.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Think of it as three separate lenses on the same business: DGMA looks at the bunkering operation and the people running it, PNGRB looks at the terminal, and PESO looks at how LNG moves on land. A supplier needs all three sorted, not just one.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Documents_Does_a_Port_Authority_Need_Before_Bunkering_Starts\"><\/span><b>What Documents Does a Port Authority Need Before Bunkering Starts?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1774\" height=\"887\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-compliance-workflow-showing-risk-assessment-documentation-safety-checks-and-fuel-transfer.png\" alt=\"LNG bunkering compliance workflow showing risk assessment, documentation, safety checks and fuel transfer\" class=\"wp-image-2376 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-compliance-workflow-showing-risk-assessment-documentation-safety-checks-and-fuel-transfer.png 1774w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-compliance-workflow-showing-risk-assessment-documentation-safety-checks-and-fuel-transfer-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-compliance-workflow-showing-risk-assessment-documentation-safety-checks-and-fuel-transfer-1024x512.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-compliance-workflow-showing-risk-assessment-documentation-safety-checks-and-fuel-transfer-768x384.png 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-compliance-workflow-showing-risk-assessment-documentation-safety-checks-and-fuel-transfer-1536x768.png 1536w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-compliance-workflow-showing-risk-assessment-documentation-safety-checks-and-fuel-transfer-1200x600.png 1200w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1774px) 100vw, 1774px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1774px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1774\/887;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Every LNG Bunker Supplier has to submit documentation to the relevant port authority at least 24 hours before each bunkering operation. What&#8217;s required depends on the delivery mode:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><b>Delivery Mode<\/b><\/td><td><b>Certifications and Documents Needed<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Ship-to-Ship<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Certificate of Registry, Certificate of Fitness for Carriage of Dangerous Goods, IGC Code, IGF Code and ISM Code certificates, Classification Society certificate<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Truck-to-Ship<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">PESO licence for road transport, BIS compliance certificates for cryogenic road tankers, driver training and certification records<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Terminal-to-Ship<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Authorisation to operate the LNG terminal and pipeline, safety standard compliance certificates for the terminal infrastructure<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">On top of the mode-specific paperwork, every operation, regardless of delivery method, also needs:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A <\/span><b>Maritime Traffic Impact Assessment (MTIA)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> and a <\/span><b>Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, prepared jointly by the supplier and the port authority<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">An <\/span><b>LNG Bunker Management Plan<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> covering pre-bunkering, bunkering and post-bunkering procedures<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A <\/span><b>Bunkering Compatibility Checklist<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, confirming the supplier&#8217;s and receiver&#8217;s systems can actually work together safely<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A <\/span><b>Joint Bunkering Plan<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, endorsed by both the supplier and the receiving vessel<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If a shipowner&#8217;s compliance team already handles a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/document-of-compliance-certification\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Document of Compliance certification<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> under the ISM Code, a lot of this documentation flow will feel familiar. It&#8217;s the same discipline of pre-agreed, written procedures, applied to a fuel that behaves very differently from heavy fuel oil.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_the_Difference_Between_a_Safety_Zone_and_a_Security_Zone\"><\/span><b>What Is the Difference Between a Safety Zone and a Security Zone?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-src=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-safety-zone-and-security-zone-around-a-vessel-during-fuel-transfer-1024x683.png\" alt=\"LNG bunkering safety zone and security zone around a vessel during fuel transfer\" class=\"wp-image-2375 lazyload\" data-srcset=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-safety-zone-and-security-zone-around-a-vessel-during-fuel-transfer-1024x683.png 1024w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-safety-zone-and-security-zone-around-a-vessel-during-fuel-transfer-300x200.png 300w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-safety-zone-and-security-zone-around-a-vessel-during-fuel-transfer-768x512.png 768w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-safety-zone-and-security-zone-around-a-vessel-during-fuel-transfer-1200x800.png 1200w, https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-bunkering-safety-zone-and-security-zone-around-a-vessel-during-fuel-transfer.png 1536w\" data-sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" src=\"data:image\/svg+xml;base64,PHN2ZyB3aWR0aD0iMSIgaGVpZ2h0PSIxIiB4bWxucz0iaHR0cDovL3d3dy53My5vcmcvMjAwMC9zdmciPjwvc3ZnPg==\" style=\"--smush-placeholder-width: 1024px; --smush-placeholder-aspect-ratio: 1024\/683;\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">These two terms get mixed up constantly, and the guidelines treat them as genuinely different things with different jobs to do.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A <\/span><b>safety zone<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> exists to control ignition sources near the actual LNG transfer point. Only essential personnel and essential activities are allowed inside it, because that&#8217;s the area most exposed if there&#8217;s an accidental gas release. A <\/span><b>security zone<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> is a wider ring around the whole operation, meant to monitor outside activity like passing ships or vehicle movement that could interfere with the bunkering. It&#8217;s always larger than the safety zone, by definition.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table is-style-stripes\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Criteria<\/strong><\/td><td><b>Safety Zone<\/b><\/td><td><b>Security Zone<\/b><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Purpose<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Controls ignition sources near the LNG transfer point<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Monitors ship movements, vehicles and other outside activity nearby<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Who can enter<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Essential personnel and activities only<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Authorised personnel only<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How size is set<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Based on the QRA&#8217;s gas dispersion modelling and credible leak scenarios<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Always larger than the safety zone<\/span><\/td><\/tr><tr><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If breached<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bunkering must stop immediately<\/span><\/td><td><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Communicated in advance to nearby vessels, installations and the port authority<\/span><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Good to know:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> if a passing vessel or a truck strays into the safety zone while LNG is being transferred, the operation has to stop immediately. There&#8217;s no judgement call involved. That&#8217;s a hard rule, not a guideline.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Rules_Apply_While_LNG_Is_Actually_Being_Transferred\"><\/span><b>What Rules Apply While LNG Is Actually Being Transferred?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A handful of operational rules kick in the moment fuel starts moving:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The bunker supply vessel, where applicable, has to participate in the local Vessel Traffic Service and keep a continuous VHF watch.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The supplier&#8217;s operator and the receiving vessel&#8217;s crew must continuously monitor LNG pressure, flow rate and temperature throughout the transfer.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A pre-bunkering checklist has to be completed within four hours of the planned operation, covering connections, safety equipment and communication systems.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Emergency shutdown systems need to be tested and confirmed working before the operation starts, not just assumed to be fine.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">All lighting and cabling near the safety zone that isn&#8217;t explosion-proof has to be switched off completely, not just dimmed or on standby.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>Good to know:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> you cannot bunker LNG and conventional fuel oil on the same vessel at the same time. Diesel oil, HFO, VLSFO, lubricating oil and other fuel grades are all off-limits during an active LNG bunkering operation. Double banking and other simultaneous ship-to-ship activities, like provisioning or garbage removal, are prohibited too.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">If something goes wrong on the supplier&#8217;s side, whether it&#8217;s the terminal, the vessel or the truck, the supplier has to tell the receiving vessel immediately over VHF or another agreed channel, even if the receiving vessel&#8217;s own operations aren&#8217;t affected yet. And if an emergency means someone has to decide whether to abandon ship or leave berth, that call sits with the master or the harbour master, not the bunker supplier.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Is_a_Bunker_Delivery_Note_and_Why_Does_It_Matter\"><\/span><b>What Is a Bunker Delivery Note and Why Does It Matter?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">A Bunker Delivery Note, or BDN, is the paper trail for every single LNG delivery. The supplier is responsible for providing one for each consignment, and it has to line up with IGF Code requirements rather than the general MARPOL Annex VI framework that governs conventional fuel oil BDNs.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The supplier keeps a copy of every BDN issued for three years. That retention period matters more than it sounds. If a dispute ever comes up over fuel quantity, quality or timing, the BDN is the primary evidence both sides fall back on, and port state control inspectors will ask for it directly.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Training_Do_Crew_Truck_Drivers_and_Terminal_Staff_Need\"><\/span><b>What Training Do Crew, Truck Drivers and Terminal Staff Need?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Training requirements differ by role and by delivery mode:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><b>Ship-to-ship crew:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> the receiving vessel&#8217;s crew handling LNG bunkering duties need certification under the IGF Code. The bunker supply vessel&#8217;s crew needs STCW training specific to gas carriers.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Truck drivers:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> anyone driving an LNG road tanker needs training and certification under PESO regulations and relevant BIS standards, with proven ability to handle cryogenic materials and operate emergency shutdown systems.<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><b>Terminal operators:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> staff running shore-based LNG bunkering need training and certification against relevant safety standards, covering equipment operation, pipeline monitoring and emergency response.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">None of this is optional paperwork. A receiving vessel with an uncertified crew, or a trucking company running drivers without PESO certification, is operating outside the guidelines even if every other document is in order.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_Can_Ships_Bunker_LNG_in_India_Right_Now\"><\/span><b>Where Can Ships Bunker LNG in India Right Now?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Infrastructure is still catching up to the regulation, which is honestly typical for a new fuel pathway. A few developments worth knowing about:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Petronet LNG already runs terminal-to-ship LNG bunkering at its Kochi facility in Kerala, and the company has floated a tender for a dedicated LNG bunkering system there, covering engineering, supply, installation and commissioning. That makes Kochi the most established LNG bunkering point in India today.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">On the ship-to-ship side, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) signed a memorandum of understanding with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bharatpetroleum.in\/index\" data-type=\"link\" data-id=\"https:\/\/www.bharatpetroleum.in\/index\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)<\/a> during India Maritime Week 2025 to build India&#8217;s first dedicated ship-to-ship LNG bunkering facility at Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala. The plan positions Vizhinjam as a refuelling hub for vessels on the East-West global shipping corridor, though it&#8217;s still at the development stage rather than operational.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">There&#8217;s also movement on the vessel-building side. Cochin Shipyard has an order to build LNG-powered feeder container vessels for CMA CGM, the French shipping line, marking the first time an international carrier has ordered LNG-fuelled ships built in India. None of this changes the compliance picture for shipowners today, but it does signal where India&#8217;s LNG bunkering map is heading over the next few years.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_Happens_If_Someone_Doesnt_Follow_the_Guidelines\"><\/span><b>What Happens If Someone Doesn&#8217;t Follow the Guidelines?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">DGMA enforces Circular No. 17 of 2025, and non-compliance carries real consequences: fines, vessel detention, suspension of licences, or other action depending on the violation. This isn&#8217;t limited to bunker suppliers either. Vessels, trucking companies and terminal operators are all fair game for enforcement action if they fall short.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Beyond straightforward penalties, the port authority, DGMA, PNGRB and PESO jointly decide a set of risk-based questions for each port before bunkering is even allowed to happen, including:<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Whether the proposed risk acceptance criteria are sound<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Who holds overall responsibility for the bunkering framework at that port<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Whether an accreditation scheme should apply to operators there<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Which specific locations within the port are acceptable for bunkering<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What restrictions apply to simultaneous operations<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">What shore-side contingency and emergency response plans look like<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How traffic control and restrictions should work<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Whether any additional requirements should apply on top of the baseline circular<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">That last point is worth flagging for anyone assuming the circular is the complete rulebook everywhere. It&#8217;s the floor, not necessarily the ceiling. Individual ports can layer on stricter local requirements.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_Should_Shipowners_and_Bunker_Suppliers_Get_Ready\"><\/span><b>How Should Shipowners and Bunker Suppliers Get Ready?<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The steps look different depending on which side of the transaction you&#8217;re on.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>If you&#8217;re setting up as a bunker supplier:<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Register your business as a proper legal entity, most commonly a<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/company-registration\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">private limited company<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, before you start the DGMA application<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Start your<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/iso-9001-qms-certification\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">ISO 9001:2015 QMS certification<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> early, since it&#8217;s a prerequisite for full registration, not something you can add later<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Line up your IRS demonstration well ahead of time, given how tight the six-month interim certificate window is<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Keep cryogenic hose pressure test certificates current; testing can&#8217;t lag more than a year behind the manufacturer&#8217;s specified interval<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Set up a proper Bunker Delivery Note filing system from day one, since you&#8217;ll need three years of clean records<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>If you&#8217;re a shipowner or ship manager:<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Confirm your crew&#8217;s IGF Code certification is current before scheduling a port call that involves LNG bunkering<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Build the 24-hour documentation window into your voyage planning, rather than treating it as a last-minute task<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Check which of the three delivery modes your intended port actually supports before you commit to a schedule<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><b>If you&#8217;re a port authority or terminal operator:<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Pre-agree safety and security zone boundaries with DGMA, PNGRB and PESO rather than working them out mid-operation<\/span><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Have a traffic management plan ready for truck-to-ship deliveries specifically, since that mode brings road traffic into a port environment not built for it<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Businesses new to India&#8217;s maritime regulatory landscape often underestimate how many moving parts are involved here. If you&#8217;d rather have someone walk through the registration and compliance side with you, our<\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/maritime-consultancy-rpsl-startup\/\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400\">maritime technical consultancy services<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> cover exactly this kind of groundwork for new entrants.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span><b>Frequently Asked Questions<\/b><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139685719\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_LNG_bunkering\"><\/span><strong>What is LNG bunkering?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>LNG bunkering is the process of transferring liquefied natural gas into a ship&#8217;s fuel tanks so it can be used as marine fuel. In India, DGMA recognises three delivery modes: ship-to-ship, truck-to-ship and terminal-to-ship through a fixed pipeline.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139799405\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Do_foreign-flagged_ships_have_to_follow_Indias_LNG_bunkering_guidelines\"><\/span><strong>Do foreign-flagged ships have to follow India&#8217;s LNG bunkering guidelines?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Yes. Circular No. 17 of 2025 applies to all ships calling at Indian ports irrespective of flag, along with every LNG bunker supplier and every port handling LNG bunkering.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139818305\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_is_a_full-term_LNG_bunker_supplier_registration_certificate_valid\"><\/span><strong>How long is a full-term LNG bunker supplier registration certificate valid?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Five years, once the Indian Register of Shipping recommends it following the Initial Audit. Suppliers also need to pass Annual Surveillance Audits and repeat a practical demonstration every alternate year to keep the certificate active.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139834856\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_a_ship_bunker_LNG_and_regular_fuel_oil_at_the_same_time\"><\/span><strong>Can a ship bunker LNG and regular fuel oil at the same time?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No. The guidelines prohibit bunkering diesel oil, HFO, VLSFO or other fuel and lubricating oil at the same time as LNG. Double banking and other simultaneous ship-to-ship activities, such as provisioning, are also off-limits during LNG transfer.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139864327\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_notice_does_a_port_authority_need_before_an_LNG_bunkering_operation\"><\/span><strong>How much notice does a port authority need before an LNG bunkering operation?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>At least 24 hours. The LNG Bunker Supplier has to notify the port authority with the time, location, delivery method and a 24-hour contact number, and submit the required documentation within that same window.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139893863\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_difference_between_an_MTIA_and_a_QRA\"><\/span><strong>What is the difference between an MTIA and a QRA?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>A Maritime Traffic Impact Assessment (MTIA) looks at how the bunkering operation affects port traffic movement. A Quantitative Risk Assessment (QRA) studies leak and fire scenarios to determine how large the safety zone needs to be. Circular No. 17 of 2025 requires both before every LNG bunkering operation.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139916587\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_decides_how_big_the_safety_zone_should_be\"><\/span><strong>Who decides how big the safety zone should be?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The size comes out of the QRA, based on gas dispersion modelling and credible leak scenarios, and it has to be agreed between the bunker supplier, the receiving vessel and the port authority. The security zone around it is always larger.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139927316\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_long_must_a_Bunker_Delivery_Note_be_kept_on_record\"><\/span><strong>How long must a Bunker Delivery Note be kept on record?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Three years. The LNG Bunker Supplier retains a copy of every Bunker Delivery Note issued to a vessel for that period, in line with IGF Code requirements.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1787139943172\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Which_standards_apply_to_LNG_bunkering_equipment_in_India\"><\/span><strong>Which standards apply to LNG bunkering equipment in India?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>DGMA references a mix of international standards alongside Indian requirements, including ISO 20519 for bunkering specifications, ISO 28460 for ship-to-shore interfaces, IACS Recommendation 142, ISGOTT guidance and NFPA 59A, together with PESO and BIS requirements for road transport equipment.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div data-wp-interactive=\"core\/file\" class=\"wp-block-file\"><object data-wp-bind--hidden=\"!state.hasPdfPreview\" hidden class=\"wp-block-file__embed\" data=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-guidelines-1.pdf\" type=\"application\/pdf\" style=\"width:100%;height:600px\" aria-label=\"Embed of LNG guidelines.\"><\/object><a id=\"wp-block-file--media-09f337d9-31bb-479e-beff-1f9bc208a24d\" href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-guidelines-1.pdf\">LNG guidelines<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/08\/LNG-guidelines-1.pdf\" class=\"wp-block-file__button wp-element-button\" aria-describedby=\"wp-block-file--media-09f337d9-31bb-479e-beff-1f9bc208a24d\" download>Download<\/a><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>India&#8217;s LNG Bunkering Guidelines 2025, issued by DGMA as Circular No. 17 of 2025, set safety, registration and documentation rules for ship-to-ship, truck-to-ship and terminal-to-ship LNG bunkering. Shipowners need IGF Code compliance, bunker suppliers need DGMA registration, and every operation needs a QRA, a safety zone and a joint bunkering plan before fuel starts moving. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":2379,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[36],"tags":[85],"class_list":["post-2372","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-business-formation","tag-lng-bunkering-guidelines"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2372","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2372"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2372\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2383,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2372\/revisions\/2383"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2379"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2372"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2372"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.legalbabu.com\/learn\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2372"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}