Ukrtransgaz, Shell Slow Down Operations in Eastern Ukraine to Protect Personnel

Ukrtransgaz disposed to move the families of its workers based in Donetsk and Luhansk to other regions of the country, explaining that the decision is due to the increased risks caused by the ongoing military confrontation.

According to a note released on Monday, a total of 200 people will move to Odessa and Lviv.

Similarly, Royal Dutch Shell said on Tuesday that it has halted drilling for shale gas in Eastern Ukraine to avoid risks for its personnel. The company signed an agreement with Ukraine to explore the Yuzivska block, with gas extraction activities previously estimated to start in 2015.

In the backdrop, Ukrtransgaz also said that new rates for the transportation of gas came into effect on June 1. Tariffs increased from Rs. 138.40 for 1,000 cubic meters to Rs 366.70. The rates apply for the transportation of gas in the country. The company did not mention gas flows to Europe.