The Hai Gang Zhi Yuan tanker, China's first and largest methanol bunkering vessel, refueled the roll-on/roll-off ship CM Hong Kong at Waigaoqiao Port in Shanghai on Sept 18, marking the Yangtze River's first simultaneous methanol bunkering operation.

A simultaneous operation involves loading and offloading cargo on a ship's dockside while refueling it from the other side.

The complexity is heightened by methanol's flammable, volatile, and toxic properties.

Additional hazards include vessel movement, mooring failures, or potential hose disconnections, any of which could cause leakage, fire, explosion, or poisoning.

The area's heavy vessel traffic further increased collision risks.

To safeguard the operation, Pudong maritime safety authorities adopted a proactive approach. They held multiple consultations with the bunkering supplier, recipient, and terminal operator, and drew up a tailored safety plan covering every stage from the vessel's sailing and transit to on-site bunkering and final departure.

Real-time monitoring tracked both vessels, inspectors verified equipment connections and protective measures, and enhanced traffic management maintained navigational order.

This achievement builds on Waigaoqiao's earlier milestone of completing the Yangtze River's first ship-to-ship liquefied natural gas bunkering.

The maritime authority noted that the new operation offers a replicable model for ports along the Yangtze River.

Source: thepaper.cn