Adani Port and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) has inaugurated India’s first dedicated very large crude carrier (VLCC) terminal at the Port of Mundra in Gujarat, marking the launch with the berthing of the fully laden 318,000 dwt VLCC New Renown.
APSEZ said the terminal has been built with a deep draft and advanced marine infrastructure to accommodate some of the world’s largest crude tankers and to improve handling efficiency and vessel turnaround times. The company expects the terminal will enable more direct crude imports via Mundra.
A key feature is a 489 km pipeline connecting the jetty to the HPCL Rajasthan Refinery in Barmer, designed to speed up crude transport while improving safety and efficiency. The 400m jetty can handle VLCCs up to 330,000 deadweight and 25m draft, reducing the need for lighterage operations before discharge.
Mundra Port currently operates 27 berths and two single point moorings (SPMs). APSEZ said the port can handle dry bulk, breakbulk, project cargo, liquids, containers, automobiles and crude oil, and is capable of accommodating capesize vessels, VLCCs, ULCCs and ultra large container vessels.
