Cochin Port has joined hands with Oil India Ltd (OIL) for an offshore oil exploration support base in the Kerala-Konkan basin.
A MoU was signed between the Cochin Port Authority (CoPA) and Oil India Ltd in this regard by senior officials from organisations.
The agreement will provide critical logistical support to OIL’s upcoming drilling operations, scheduled to commence in late 2025. With this partnership, Cochin Port will strengthen its position as a vital hub for offshore energy exploration.
The shore base facility will come up at the port, with provisions for a warehouse, a dry bulk handling plant, and an exclusive jetty and will support offshore vessels operating round-the-clock.
This initiative marks a key collaboration between a major central port and India’s second-largest national oil company. The project aims to streamline offshore support operations by offering berthing, refuelling, dry bulk transfer, potable water, and shore power facilities for OIL’s vessels.
The Kerala-Konkan offshore block, being explored by OIL, holds promising energy prospects. The port’s strategic location and infrastructure readiness made it the preferred choice for establishing the support base. The agreement is initially valid for 12 months starting June, with scope for extension based on the progress of exploration.
Environmental safeguards and operational safety have been given priority in the agreement. Oil India has committed to deploying eco-friendly and noise-controlled bulk handling systems, while ensuring strict compliance with port and state environmental regulations.
The partnership will open up fresh avenues for infrastructure-driven support to India’s growing energy ambitions, said a press release.