• New pipeline to be built alongside expansion
• Plans to renovate tanks and pipeline system in two years

The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) expects to complete the next phase of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm development, including the refurbishment of 29 oil tanks and the construction of a new oil pipeline, within the next two years

When contacted by The Sunday Morning, CPC Managing Director Dr. Mayura Neththikumarage stated that Requests for Proposal (RFP) for 29 tanks within the oil farm were ready, with approval pending from procurement committees.

“We are expecting that we can develop 29 tanks in two years’ time. Once the RFP is approved, we will publish it,” he said.

At present, the CPC has completed the renovation of two oil tanks, while tenders have been called for the repair of three more oil tanks.

According to Dr. Neththikumarage, out of the complex’s 99 oil tanks, 61 oil tanks are owned by the Sri Lankan and Indian joint venture company named Trinco Petroleum Terminal Ltd., while 24 tanks belong to the CPC. The remaining 14 oil tanks belong to Lanka IOC (LIOC).

Dr. Neththikumarage said that the proposed new oil pipeline would be developed by the CPC, with the expectation of it also being completed within a two-year time period.

A special observation tour led by Minister of Ports, Civil Aviation, and Energy Anura Karunathilake, was conducted to inspect the development activities of the Trincomalee Port, the oil tank complex, the new pipeline system, and the China Bay Airport.

These development projects are expected to strengthen Sri Lanka’s energy security and increase fuel storage and distribution capacity.