India's first green methanol bunkering hub to commence soon at VOC Port

In a significant step towards developing alternative marine fuel infrastructure on India's east coast, the country's first dedicated green methanol bunkering hub at V.O. Chidambaranar Port (VOC Port) is preparing to commence commercial operations by the end of November 2026. According to a statement released by the V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, with this facility, VOC Port will become the only port on India's east coast to provide this service.

Moving towards the target of commercial launching, VOC Port is currently completing port-readiness processes, statutory requirements, and trial bunkering. An Expression of Interest (EOI) has also been issued to identify a suitable bunkering operator. Commercial supply will begin once the necessary operational arrangements and clearances are completed.

The facility was inaugurated on October 11, 2026, by Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi. Shipping companies are now expanding their fleets of methanol-capable vessels, providing VOC Port an opportunity to enter this emerging international market. According to the Port Authority, the availability of a reliable fuel supply will become more critical in route planning and bunkering decisions.

This dedicated facility at Thoothukudi could help India secure a share in the growing maritime fuel business and strengthen the port's commercial appeal for international shipping lines. VOC Port gains a major advantage due to its geographical location near the east-west international shipping route. According to port estimates, approximately 80 per cent of cargo ships operating on this route pass within 130 nautical miles of Thoothukudi.

Due to its position on the Rotterdam-Tuticorin-Singapore maritime corridor, this hub has the capacity to provide green methanol bunkering services to vessels that do not make regular cargo calls at the port.

The facility has a total storage capacity of 1,500 m³ via two tanks of 750 m³ each. There is a 2.8 km long stainless-steel pipeline connecting the storage installation to the bunkering point on the jetty. Methanol received via road tankers or ships can be transferred to other vessels through this pipeline.

Sushant Kumar Purohit (IRSEE), Chairperson of V.O. Chidambaranar Port Authority, stated, "The ability to provide alternative marine fuels will further impact the competitiveness of ports providing international shipping services. This facility is a significant step towards establishing Thoothukudi as a reliable bunkering destination."

Purohit further added that their immediate priority is to complete the necessary safety, statutory, and operational preparations. He expressed confidence that in the long run, these services have the potential to support green-fuel production, maritime activities, and industrial investment at a regional level.