Bunker operations have started to resume at the west coast of India, beyond the port limits. OPL bunker operations are scheduled to start in September informed BPCL. From June to August these operations were allowed only subject to weather conditions and permission of the local authorities. Suppliers at the main bunker ports of Mumbai and Cochin are expecting greater demand in the coming weeks.
As the maritime industry anticipates the reinvigoration of bunker supply services, the prevailing price indications have caught the attention of stakeholders. Present prices are hovering at $630 per metric ton at Mumbai and Cochin ports. The anticipated lifting of bunker supply restrictions on the west coast of India is expected to revive operations on this trade route. Bharat Petroleum has 90% market share in maritime fuel sales at Mumbai Port and produces 30 million metric tonnes annually at refineries in Mumbai and Cochin.
