Has Adani Ports Achieved a Milestone by Berthing India’s First Fully Laden Very Large Crude Carrier at Mundra Port?
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Synopsis
Adani Ports has achieved a remarkable feat by docking India's first fully laden VLCC at Mundra Port. This significant milestone not only enhances India's energy security but also positions Mundra as a pivotal hub in global maritime logistics.
Key Takeaways
- First fully laden VLCC docked at Mundra Port.
- Enhances India's energy security.
- Transforms crude oil logistics in India.
- Mundra Port joins select global crude handling hubs.
- Demonstrates APSEZ's operational excellence.
Ahmedabad, Jan 8 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking achievement for India’s maritime and energy sectors, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ) revealed on Thursday that India’s inaugural fully laden Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC) has successfully docked at its Mundra Port.
The vessel, Mt New Renown, boasts a substantial cargo capacity of 3.3 lakh m3 (meter cube), marking Mundra as the first port in India capable of accommodating a Fully Laden VLCC at Berth, according to a statement from the Adani Group.
Faced with challenging conditions such as strong currents, winds, and sea states, the docking of Mt New Renown demonstrated the exceptional expertise, coordination, and operational prowess of the APSEZ marine team and port management.
Mundra’s VLCC jetty is directly linked via a 489 km crude oil pipeline to the HPCL Rajasthan Refinery located in Barmer, which is recognized as one of India’s critical refining assets.
This direct connection significantly boosts India’s energy security, enhances the efficiency of large-scale crude imports, strengthens supply chain resilience, and promotes regional economic development across Gujarat and Rajasthan.
The port’s ability to berth fully laden VLCCs at maximum displacement signifies a transformative evolution in India’s crude oil logistics, facilitating safer, faster, and more economical crude handling through direct jetty operations.
Only a limited number of ports globally can accommodate direct jetty berthing of fully laden VLCCs due to the extreme draft, displacement, and infrastructure demands these vessels impose.
With this milestone, Mundra Port joins the ranks of select global crude handling hubs, reinforcing India’s stature in the international maritime and energy landscape. The advanced vessel-handling capabilities at Mundra Port reduce reliance on offshore Single Point Moorings (SPMs) or lightering operations typically utilized for such massive vessels.
“This milestone underscores Mundra’s importance as the first port in India and among a handful worldwide with a dedicated jetty capable of directly berthing fully laden VLCCs,” the Adani Group stated.
Mundra Port features 27 operational berths and two Single Point Moorings (SPMs), with the capacity to manage dry bulk, break-bulk, project cargo, liquids, containers, automobiles, and crude oil, accommodating Cape size vessels, VLCCs, Ultra Large Crude Carriers (ULCCs), and ultra-large container vessels (ULCVs).
In 2024-25, Mundra made history by handling over 200 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo in a single year, solidifying its unmatched scale and operational leadership.
Point of View
I recognize this development as a pivotal moment in India's maritime landscape. The successful docking of a fully laden VLCC at Mundra Port represents a significant advancement in our logistics capabilities, contributing to national energy security and economic growth. It is essential to acknowledge such achievements that bolster our infrastructure and enhance our standing in the global arena.
NationPress
09/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the VLCC docking at Mundra Port?
The docking of the VLCC at Mundra Port signifies a major advancement in India's ability to handle large-scale crude oil logistics, enhancing energy security and operational efficiency.
How does Mundra Port contribute to India's energy security?
Mundra Port enhances India's energy security by providing a direct connection to major refining assets, facilitating efficient crude oil imports and strengthening supply chain resilience.
What challenges were faced during the VLCC's docking?
The docking of the VLCC was executed under challenging conditions, including strong currents, winds, and sea states, showcasing the operational excellence of the APSEZ marine team.
What facilities does Mundra Port offer for large vessels?
Mundra Port features a dedicated VLCC jetty, operational berths, and the capability to accommodate various types of vessels, including VLCCs and ULCCs.
How does this achievement affect the global maritime landscape?
This achievement positions Mundra Port among select global crude handling hubs, enhancing India's presence in the international maritime and energy sectors.
