Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL), a subsidiary of state-run Indian Oil Corporation, has unveiled plans to significantly bolster its refining capabilities in South India. According to OilPrice.com, the company aims to scale up the capacity of its facility located in Manali, Chennai, by approximately one-third. The proposed upgrade will push the refinery's daily throughput from its current 210,000 barrels per day (bpd) to 280,000 bpd.

The Manali plant serves as a vital component of India’s energy infrastructure, producing a diverse array of essential petroleum products. Its current operational portfolio includes the manufacturing of fuels, lubricants, waxes, and various petrochemical derivatives. While the expansion project was highlighted in the company’s recent 2025/2026 report, specific details regarding the project timeline and the total capital expenditure required to reach the 280,000 bpd target remain undisclosed at this time.

This move aligns with India's broader national objective to enhance domestic refining capacity to meet increasing energy demands. By optimizing the Manali facility, CPCL looks to strengthen its market position and improve operational efficiency across its product lines. The planned growth reflects a strategic effort by the state-controlled refiner to modernize its assets and contribute to the country's rising industrial needs.