Send-out pipeline delays will force Indian importer Petronet LNG to operate its Kochi terminal under construction in the south of the country at just a fraction of its capacity in the first year.

Transmission giant Gail (India) has pushed back start-up of its pipeline from Kochi to the cities of Mangalore and Bangalore by six months.

That means commissioning of the line is now expected in December 2013, said analysts recently briefed by Petronet management.

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