A ship-to-ship bunkering service has commenced at Vizhinjam International Seaport in India, making it easier for container ships to refuel locally, reports Safety4sea.
Vizhinjam Port sets global ambition
The service began with the oil tanker barge MT Sean 1, operated by Adani Bunkering Company, transferring very low sulfur fuel oil (VLSFO) to the container ship MSC Akhiteta II, anchored at Vizhinjam. According to the Minister of Ports, V.N. Vasavan, this service will reduce reliance on foreign ports for refueling.
He further noted that as Vizhinjam develops into India’s transshipment hub, it is expected to become a key refueling center for major international shipping companies.
Currently, the fuel barge transports fuel from Kochi to Vizhinjam to refuel incoming container ships. An official highlighted that the advantage of this setup is that container ships no longer need to carry large fuel loads, allowing them to carry more containers.
Previously, most ships refueled at Colombo, but with Vizhinjam’s service, India and Kerala stand to gain significant revenue. In addition, the port plans to introduce more fueling barges as demand grows and is preparing to install a fuel farm and liquid berth under its Phase II expansion.
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Source: Safety4sea
