Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) has announced the successful completion of a significant modernisation project for its Vadinar–Bina Pipeline (VBPL), a move that underscores the company’s commitment to bolstering India’s energy infrastructure and security. The 937 km pipeline, which is essential for the supply of crude oil to BPCL’s Bina Refinery, has undergone a series of upgrades to enhance automation, cybersecurity, and monitoring capabilities.
The modernisation initiative was essential in addressing the growing domestic demand for energy and the increasing need for robust cybersecurity measures to protect critical infrastructure. The pipeline, with a capacity of 7.80 million metric tonnes per annum, is pivotal in ensuring the stable operation of BPCL’s refinery operations.
Key enhancements included the replacement of outdated Remote Terminal Units at various critical points along the pipeline, such as pumping stations, pigging stations, and sectionalising valve stations. Furthermore, the project saw the installation of new SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) servers at both Vadinar and Bina, significantly boosting the pipeline’s operational reliability and response capabilities.
One of the standout features of the upgrade is the implementation of advanced cybersecurity protocols designed to safeguard the pipeline from potential cyber threats and breaches, an increasingly important consideration in today’s digital age. Additionally, the infrastructure now includes improved failover capabilities and a robust disaster recovery framework, ensuring that the pipeline can maintain operations even under adverse conditions.
Mr. Biju Gopinath, BPCL’s Executive Director (Pipelines), highlighted the project’s achievements, stating, “The partnership with ABB India Ltd was instrumental in the seamless execution of the SCADA revamp for the Vadinar–Bina crude pipeline. This project was carried out without disrupting our ongoing operations, which is a testament to the meticulous planning and execution capabilities of the team involved. The enhancements not only boost the reliability of our pipeline operations but also contribute significantly to the nation’s energy security.”
The successful completion of the Vadinar–Bina Pipeline modernisation project is a key milestone in BPCL’s strategy to invest in critical infrastructure that supports the country’s long-term energy needs. It reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety, security, and operational excellence.
This initiative is part of BPCL’s broader vision to advance its infrastructure using cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices, ensuring that the corporation remains at the forefront of India’s energy sector. As the country continues to experience rapid growth and increased energy consumption, such strategic investments are crucial for sustaining the energy supply chain and supporting national development.
