Vizag port handled 1.43 million MT crude oil amid West Asia conflict

Visakhapatnam Port handles 1.43 million MT of crude oil amid West Asia conflict, ensuring steady supply to regional refineries.

The Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has emerged as a critical energy lifeline for the nation’s eastern seaboard, handling a massive influx of 1.43 million (14.3 lakh) metric tonnes (MT) of crude oil between March 1 and the first week of April.

According to the latest vessel movement data available from VPA as on March 26, a total of 13 high-capacity motor tankers (MT) vessels have been mobilised to ensure steady supply to regional refineries, navigating a complex global maritime landscape marked by the ongoing West Asia crisis.

Russia and Iraq contributed the lion’s share of international cargo. Iraq’s contribution was highlighted by the Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) MT Desh Vishal, which made two significant calls from Basrah, delivering a combined 3.16 lakh tonnes. Russian energy remains a primary pillar for the port, with four vessels—MT Velora, MT Centurion I, and the upcoming MT Jumbo (March 27) and MT Fondeya (scheduled to arrive on April 2)—collectively accounting for over 4.7 lakh tonnes of crude.

Domestic coastal security also played a pivotal role, with nearly 4.45 lakh tonnes moved from Indian ports including Mundra, Mumbai, and Kakinada. Key domestic MT vessels, including MT Swarna Brahmaputra, MT Swarna Ganga, and the expected MT Desh Gaurav (scheduled to arrive on April 5), have ensured that indigenous crude stocks are efficiently redistributed to meet local demand.

“VPA is currently managing the discharge of 1,00,000 MT from the MT Centurion I, even as it prepares for the arrival of the MT Jumbo on Friday (March 27) afternoon. This vessel, carrying 1,36,728 MT from Russia, is being handled under “Top Priority” protocols,” a senior VPA official told The Hindu on Thursday.

Port officials noted that this high-intensity operation, involving both international imports and domestic transshipments, is vital for maintaining the operational continuity of the energy sector during the current period of maritime volatility. The seamless handling of these 13 crude oil vessels reinforces Visakhapatnam’s position as a premier energy gateway for the country, the official added.