India has taken a significant step in its alternative fuels journey, completing the country’s inaugural methanol bunkering demonstration at Kandla port in the western state of Gujarat, according to Ship & Bunker.
A Historic Demonstration for India’s Port Sector
The Deendayal Port Authority — the body overseeing Kandla Port — shared news of the demonstration via a social media post, confirming it as a first for India’s port sector. Ship & Bunker reports the exercise was designed to showcase the port’s capability to supply methanol as a marine fuel to visiting vessels.
Kandla, also referred to as Deendayal Port, has now achieved port readiness level 6 for biomethanol bunkering, as noted by India’s shipping ministry in a separate announcement cited by Ship & Bunker.
Part of a Broader National Push
The demonstration does not stand in isolation. According to Ship & Bunker, India’s shipping ministry recently outlined a wider programme of alternative fuel infrastructure development, which encompasses both green methanol bunkering initiatives and hydrogen hub projects at strategically important ports across the country.
This positions India as an emerging player in the global transition toward cleaner marine fuels, with Kandla serving as an early proving ground for methanol supply readiness.
Growing Global Demand for Methanol Bunkering
The timing aligns with a notable shift in the global fleet. As Ship & Bunker reports, more vessels capable of running on methanol are entering service, fuelling demand for reliable bunkering options. The publication notes that wider availability of methanol beyond existing hubs will be necessary to support this growing segment of the fleet.
India’s progress at Kandla suggests the country is positioning itself to meet that demand as part of a longer-term strategy to integrate alternative marine fuels into its port operations.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
