Indian strategic storage
India’s energy security blueprint is anchored by its expanding network of Indian strategic storage facilities—underground caverns designed to store crude oil reserves for emergencies and supply disruptions. As global oil markets face increasing volatility, these storage projects are becoming essential to safeguard India’s economy and ensure uninterrupted fuel availability.
The Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL), under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, manages key storage sites in Vishakhapatnam, Mangalore, and Padur, with a combined capacity of over 5.3 million tonnes. The next phase of Indian strategic storage expansion includes new caverns at Chandikhol in Odisha and Padur Phase-II in Karnataka, which will nearly double India’s crude storage capacity.
According to Indian Petroplus, these projects are part of a broader policy to build 90–100 days of net import coverage through a mix of public and private participation. Global partnerships with countries such as the UAE and Japan have added a commercial dimension—allowing stored crude to be swapped, leased, or sold during market imbalances.
Beyond oil, India is also exploring strategic storage for natural gas and green hydrogen to align with its transition goals. With rising geopolitical risks and fluctuating crude prices, this storage infrastructure is a vital shield ensuring supply resilience and price stability.
Indian Petroplus reports that investments in Indian strategic storage are not only enhancing national security but also opening opportunities for engineering, storage, and logistics companies. As India’s energy demand continues to climb, these reserves represent the cornerstone of long-term energy preparedness and economic stability, Indian Strategic Storage, Strategic Petroleum Reserve, SPR India, Energy Security India, Oil Reserves.For access to many such exclusive stories, please register on www.indianpetroplus.com
