BPCL + Cochin Port: Ready for the LNG Maritime Revolution?

Cochin Port Authority and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) signed a significant ₹500 crore Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish LNG bunkering facilities in Kochi. The project marks a major step toward advancing clean maritime fuel use in India and aligns with national and global goals for sustainable port development. The agreement was formalized during the India Maritime Week 2025 in Mumbai and aims to make Kochi a leading LNG bunkering hub on the South Indian coast.

Key Details of the Agreement

• Parties Involved: Cochin Port Authority and BPCL
• Project Investment: ₹500 crore
• Purpose: To establish LNG bunkering for LNG-powered and dual-fuel ships
• Locations Outer anchorage of Kochi Port & Inner port limit, Petronet LNG Ltd Jetty

MoU Signatories

• Capt. Himanshu Shekhar, Traffic Manager, Cochin Port
• Sanjay Kargaonkar, CGM (Sales–I&C), BPCL

Clean Energy Goals and Maritime Impact

This LNG bunkering facility is designed to align with,

• India’s green port initiatives
• International maritime decarbonization goals, including IMO 2050 targets
• Transition to cleaner fuels in shipping and logistics
• Promotion of LNG as a marine fuel, reducing dependence on heavy fuel oil

The partnership reflects India’s push to be at the forefront of eco-friendly maritime practices, boosting the role of Kochi as a model port for clean energy adoption.

Strategic Importance

• Kochi becomes South India’s LNG bunkering leader, supporting both domestic and international shipping.
• Enhances India’s LNG infrastructure, making it easier for ships to switch to cleaner fuels.
• Contributes to the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat goals through domestic energy infrastructure.

Environmental and Economic Benefits

• Significant reduction in carbon emissions and maritime pollution
• Supports IMO regulations on sulphur emissions and carbon reduction
• Job creation: Both direct and indirect employment during construction and operation
• Improves port competitiveness and international cargo appeal

Key Takeaways

• ₹500 crore MoU signed between Cochin Port and BPCL
• Purpose: Set up LNG bunkering facilities at three Kochi locations
• Part of India’s green port and clean fuel goals
• Expected project launch: By the end of 2025
• Supports IMO environmental regulations and India’s net-zero ambitions