Deep Driller-1 for GSPC
The suspense is over! PETROWATCH learns GSPC has formally hired Aban Offshore-owned jack-up Deep Driller-1 to begin development drilling at the Deen Dayal gasfield in eastern offshore shallow water block KG-OSN-2001/3.
Chennai-based Aban, we hear, received the Letter of Intent (LoI) on March 26, for a contract estimated to be worth $41m. Deep Driller-I has been hired for one ‘firm’ year with two ‘optional’ six-month extensions.
“Hiring DD-1 during the ‘optional’ period will be entirely at GSPC’s discretion,” says an industry source. Aban must mobilise Deep Driller-1 in July or August this year at discovery well KG#8 to begin its assignment.
Engineering giant Larsen & Toubro, meanwhile, told the Mumbai Stock Exchange last week it has won the EPC contract to set up a 16-slot, six-legged wellhead development drilling platform at Deen Dayal. Rival Indian contractor AFCONS was ranked second quoting a price 16% higher than L&T.
