Cochin customs authority has streamlined and simplified bunkering procedures as an incentive for more ships to bunker at the Indian port.
As a result of the changes, it will now be possible for companies to file applications and obtain clearance for bunker deliveries even after regular office hours, including during holidays. This will enable bunkering operations to be carried out on a round-the-clock basis.
The same procedures will also be applicable for companies providing store supplies and water to vessels.
The new changes will allow barges engaged in bunkering operations to supply fuel to multiple vessels instead of the existing restriction that only permits one ship to be supplied during a trip. Also, vessels receiving fuel need not be berthed at the port, but can be located anywhere within Indian Customs waters.
"These changes will attract even those ships which pass through the neighbouring international route to undertake bunkering here, though they may not otherwise touch the port. There are about 70 ships which pass through the international route adjacent to Kochi every day," said Customs Commissioner
K N Raghavan.
Cochin Port Trust (CPT) - operator of Cochin port together with
Dubai Ports World - has already introduced single-window clearance for documentation relating to bunkering operations as part of the initiatives aimed at making the port a major bunkering hub in the region.
The Kerala government has also recently announced some tax incentives to promote bunkering at Cochin. Please find a link below to details regarding the incentives, released in September 2012.
http://www.cochinport.gov.in/writereaddata/pdf/1349847127-Bunkering%2027-9-12.pdf
