In a landmark development for India’s maritime sector, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) have joined hands to establish the country’s first ship-to-ship (STS) Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) bunkering facility at Vizhinjam Port in Kerala.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two companies was signed during India Maritime Week 2025, held in Mumbai from 27 to 31 October.

Once operational, the facility will act as a dedicated LNG refuelling hub for international vessels transiting the East-West global shipping corridor.

The project is expected to help shipping companies reduce greenhouse gas emissions by offering LNG as a cleaner alternative to traditional marine fuels.

APSEZ said the initiative is part of its plan to build sustainable, next-generation ports that improve India’s logistics network and promote green port operations. The company added that the project will also make Vizhinjam a key hub for low-carbon shipping in the Indian Ocean region.

BPCL, which is expanding its clean energy business, will use its experience in gas marketing and fuel supply to deliver world-class bunkering services.

The company described the collaboration as a key milestone in its efforts to enhance LNG infrastructure and promote cleaner energy solutions.

APSEZ’s leaders said the partnership with BPCL shows their shared commitment to sustainability and India’s net-zero goals.

References: The Hindu, indiashippingnews