Construction Begins for Jet A-1 Pipeline and New Muthurajawela Oil Tank Complex Under President’s Patronage
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake emphasizes building a robust, efficient energy market that does not burden the public, as major infrastructure developments kick off to bolster Sri Lanka’s fuel security.
President Anura Kumara Dissanayake stated that the government aims to provide an efficient service to the public while maintaining a strong state share in the energy market. He highlighted that significant progress has been achieved over the past two years, paving the way for a stable energy market that does not burden citizens.
The President made these remarks while attending the groundbreaking ceremony for the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation’s (CPC) Jet A-1 pipeline system and two new oil tank storage complexes belonging to the CPC and the Ceylon Petroleum Storage Terminals Limited (CPSTL).
Aligned with the government’s national strategy to enhance energy sector infrastructure, these projects aim to secure aviation fuel supply, minimize logistics costs, and meet future demand for jet fuel.
Jet A-1 Pipeline & Storage Project To meet the growing demands of Sri Lanka’s aviation sector, a dedicated pipeline and connected tank complex are being constructed linking Muthurajawela and the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake.
Storage Capacity: Construction has begun on five new Jet A-1 fuel tanks with a total capacity of 92,000 cubic meters. This includes two large tanks (30,000 m 3 each), two medium-sized tanks (15,000 m 3 each), and an additional 2,000 m 3 tank.
Pipeline Details: A 21-kilometer underground pipeline with a 10-inch diameter will connect the Muthurajawela storage facility directly to the airport.
Timeline: The project is scheduled for completion within 30 months.
CPSTL Storage Expansion Concurrently, CPSTL initiated the construction of three new storage tanks at the Muthurajawela terminal to expand petroleum infrastructure.
Additional Capacity: Upon completion, the three-tank system—comprising two 15,000 m 3 tanks and one 10,000 m 3 tank—will add 40,000 cubic meters of total storage capacity.
Timeline: The project carries an 18-month contract period and is set for completion by April 2028.
These facilities are constructed according to international standards and best industry practices, ensuring improved safety, operational efficiency, and a steady supply chain to strengthen national fuel reserves.
Key Statements from Dignitaries Anura Karunathilaka (Minister of Ports, Civil Aviation, and Energy):
“We are currently in a period of energy transition as the world rapidly shifts toward clean energy. Electric vehicles and solar energy play a vital role in this transition. By 2029, we aim to add 1,200 MW of solar power to the national grid. Beyond controlling fuel prices, we must manage fuel consumption. Adopting energy-saving habits and switching to fuel-efficient or electric vehicles will greatly support national energy security.”
D.J. Rajakaruna (Chairman, Ceylon Petroleum Corporation):
“Despite major challenges stemming from conflicts in the Middle East, prompt intervention by the President managed the crisis effectively. While global market prices for diesel surged by 91%, domestic prices were increased by only 39.5%. Similarly, while global petrol prices rose by 80%, local prices were adjusted by just 41%.
Even after providing fuel at subsidized rates, CPC recorded a profit of LKR 28 billion this year, following a LKR 36 billion profit last year. These profits are being reinvested directly into national infrastructure—including adding 11 storage tanks, modernizing our 90-year-old oil filling division, laying two new discharge pipelines from the Colombo Port to Kolonnawa, and building the Jet A-1 aviation pipeline. Thus, the benefits are returned directly to the public.”
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Science and Technology Prof. Krishantha Abeysena, Deputy Minister of Energy Arkam Ilyas, Member of Parliament Kumara Jayakody, Secretary to the Ministry of Energy, Senior Additional Secretary to the President Russel Aponsu, foreign diplomats, government officials, and representatives from Sinopec.
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