The Energy Ministry yesterday announced it has expanded the bunkering capacity at the Colombo Port South Jetty with the launch of new pipelines and fuelling facilities. The initiative is a joint project of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) and Petroleum Storage Terminals Ltd. (PSTL), marking the first phase of a plan to upgrade the country's petroleum storage, distribution, and bunkering operations.

Energy Minister Eng. Kumara Jayakody said that the lack of adequate pipelines and berths had previously restricted the ship fuel supply at the port. He explained that bunkering was limited to the Jaya Container Terminal, which also handled petroleum unloading, leading to delays. "With the new bunkering infrastructure now in place, we have been able to deliver the first fuel supply more efficiently," the Minister stated, adding that this is a key step towards positioning Colombo Port as a regional maritime hub.

The launch event was also attended by Ports and Civil Aviation Deputy Minister Janitha Ruwan Kodithuwakku, CPC Chairman Janaka Rajakaruna, and other senior officials from both the CPC and PSTL.