Cochin Port inks Rs 500 cr LNG bunkering project with BPCL at IMW in Mumbai

The Cochin Port Authority (CoPA) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish LNG bunkering facilities for LNG-powered and dual-fuel vessels at the outer anchorage, inner port limits, and Petronet LNG Ltd Jetty. The proposed project involves an estimated investment of Rs 500 crore and aims to promote the use of clean fuel in maritime operations, as per a release.

The MoU was signed in the presence of Mr B. Kasiviswanathan, IRSME, Chairperson, Cochin Port Authority, and Mr Manoj Menon, Business Head I&C BPCL, by Capt. Himanshu Shekhar, Traffic Manager, Cochin Port Authority, and Mr Sanjay Kargaonkar, Chief General Manager (Sales–I&C), BPCL, during the India Maritime Week 2025 held in Mumbai.

Mr Mukul Agarwal, GM (Finance), BPCL; Mr Suresh Sahajwani, DGM (Business Development), BPCL; Mr Priyadarshee Panda, State Head (I&C), Kerala, BPCL; and Ms Sandhya Vidyasagar, Senior Manager (Marketing Coordination – I&C), BPCL and Senior officials of Cochin Port Authority were present at the ceremony.

This strategic partnership aligns with India’s vision to enhance sustainability and reduce carbon emissions. The LNG bunkering facility will support the nation’s clean energy ambitions, in line with global environmental regulations and India’s commitment to green port initiatives.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr B. Kasiviswanathan, Chairperson, CoPA, emphasised that the collaboration between Cochin Port and BPCL marks a significant step towards promoting eco-friendly maritime operations and positioning Cochin as a leading LNG bunkering hub on the South Indian coast.

The project is expected to commence by the end of this year, creating substantial direct and indirect employment opportunities, concluded the release.

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