India's VOC port runs drills for methanol bunker pilot

The port authority of VO Chidambaranar (VOC) in India has carried out training and mock drills to prepare for a methanol bunkering pilot at the port.

IMAGE: Container ship docked at VO Chidambaranar (VOC) Port in India. VOC Port Authority

VOC Port is located on India's south-eastern coast along the East-West international shipping route.

The port authority held a methanol bunkering training session for personnel from its traffic, marine, mechanical and fire and safety departments, along with representatives from project contractor SOPAN.

The session included a live demonstration and mock drills at the planned bunkering site, focusing on safe methanol handling and preparations for future bunkering operations.

The authority has not disclosed when the methanol bunkering pilot will take place, or how the fuel will be supplied to vessels.

Earlier this year, another Indian port hosted the country’s first shore-to-ship methanol bunkering pilot. A Stolt Tankers-owned vessel received an undisclosed quantity of grey methanol during the trial at the Port of Kandla.

The port authority also adopted a methanol bunkering manual and standard operating guidelines to support bunkering operations.

By Konica Bhatt

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