Trincomalee Harbour and Its Oil Farms: Historical, Strategic, and Contemporary Analysis


BRAMPTON, March 19, 2026-Trincomalee Harbour and Oil Farms in Sri Lanka

Trincomalee Harbour and Its Oil Farms: Historical, Strategic, and Contemporary Analysis


Introduction

Trincomalee Harbour, nestled on the northeastern coast of Sri Lanka, stands as one of the world’s finest natural deep-water harbours. Its unique geography, vast sheltered anchorage, and proximity to major Indian Ocean shipping lanes have rendered it a site of immense historical, strategic, and economic significance. Central to its modern relevance is the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm, a sprawling complex of storage tanks constructed during the British colonial era, which has since become a focal point of regional geopolitics, Indo-Lankan relations, and debates over national sovereignty and economic development. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of Trincomalee Harbour and its oil farms, tracing their historical evolution, technical features, ownership dynamics, and current operational status. It also examines the broader strategic, economic, and environmental implications, with particular attention to the Indian-owned segment of the oil farm and recent bilateral agreements shaping its future.


Historical Significance of Trincomalee Harbour

Pre-Colonial and Early Colonial Era

Trincomalee’s natural harbour has been recognized for its strategic value since antiquity. Historical records indicate that the port was frequented by traders from the Roman Empire, Arabs, Chinese, and South Indian kingdoms as early as the first millennium CE. The sheltered bay, deep anchorage, and proximity to the Bay of Bengal made it a coveted maritime asset for regional powers.

With the arrival of European colonial powers, Trincomalee’s importance grew exponentially. The Portuguese, who arrived in the early 16th century, established a foothold in the region, recognizing the harbour’s potential as a naval base. However, it was under Dutch control (from 1639) that the port’s fortifications were significantly expanded. The Dutch constructed Fort Fredrick at the entrance to the harbour, which remains a prominent landmark today. The British, who seized Trincomalee in 1795, further developed the harbour, transforming it into a key naval outpost within their Indian Ocean empire.

World War II and Naval History

Trincomalee’s strategic value reached its zenith during World War II. As the Japanese advanced through Southeast Asia, the British Eastern Fleet relocated from Singapore to Trincomalee, making it the principal Allied naval base in the Indian Ocean. The harbour’s deep waters and extensive facilities enabled it to accommodate large fleets, including aircraft carriers, battleships, and support vessels.

On April 9, 1942, Trincomalee was subjected to a major Japanese air raid, resulting in significant damage to naval installations and the sinking of several ships. Despite these losses, the harbour remained operational and played a crucial role in Allied logistics and anti-submarine warfare throughout the conflict. The legacy of this period is evident in the remnants of wartime infrastructure and the continued strategic interest in the site by regional and global powers.


The Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm: Origins and Construction

British Colonial Vision and Construction (1930s-1940s)

The origins of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm date to the late 1930s, when the British Admiralty, anticipating the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean, commissioned the construction of a vast oil storage facility to support naval operations. The project, completed in 1944, comprised 101 massive storage tanks, each with a capacity of approximately 12,000 to 13,000 tonnes, spread over an 850-acre expanse in the suburb of China Bay, adjacent to the harbour.

The tanks were constructed using robust steel and concrete, designed to withstand aerial bombardment and sabotage. The facility was connected to the harbour via pipelines, enabling efficient refuelling of warships and merchant vessels. At its peak, the tank farm was among the largest in Asia, capable of storing over 1 million tonnes of petroleum products.

Post-War Decline and Neglect

Following the end of World War II and Sri Lanka's (then Ceylon) independence in 1948, the strategic imperative for maintaining such a large oil storage facility diminished. The British gradually withdrew, and the tank farm fell into disuse. By the 1960s, only a handful of tanks remained operational, primarily serving the domestic needs of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), established in 1961. The majority of the tanks, however, were left to deteriorate, succumbing to rust, vegetation overgrowth, and occasional vandalism.


Technical Specifications and Capacity of the Tank Farm

Layout and Structure

The Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm is divided into two main sections:

·       Upper Tank Farm: Comprising 84 tanks, located on elevated terrain further inland.

·       Lower Tank Farm: Comprising 16 tanks, situated closer to the harbour and port facilities.

Each tank is approximately 12 meters in height and 20 meters in diameter, with a storage capacity ranging from 12,000 to 13,000 tonnes. The tanks are constructed of riveted steel plates, encased in concrete, and equipped with underground pipelines connecting them to the port and rail networks.

Total Capacity and Condition

The theoretical total storage capacity of the tank farm is estimated at over 1 million tonnes (approximately 8 million barrels). However, decades of neglect have rendered many tanks unfit for use. As of 2025, only about 15-18 tanks are operational, primarily in the Lower Tank Farm, with the remainder requiring extensive refurbishment or complete reconstruction.

The following table summarizes key technical details:

Section

Number of Tanks

Capacity per Tank (tonnes)

Total Capacity (tonnes)

Operational Status (2025)

Upper Tank Farm

84

~12,000

~1,008,000

Mostly non-operational

Lower Tank Farm

16

~12,000

~192,000

10-15 operational

Total

100

 

~1,200,000

15-18 operational

The technical scale of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm remains impressive by regional standards. However, the vast majority of tanks require significant investment to restore them to operational status, with issues ranging from corrosion and structural damage to obsolete safety systems and environmental contamination.


Ownership and Lease History

Early Post-Independence Era

After independence, the ownership of the tank farm passed to the Sri Lankan government. The facility was managed by the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC), which used a small number of tanks for domestic fuel storage. The remainder of the facility languished, with periodic discussions about potential commercial uses or foreign investment failing to materialize.

Indo-Lanka Accord and Indian Interest (1987-2002)

The strategic significance of Trincomalee, particularly in the context of India’s security concerns, was underscored in the 1987 Indo-Lanka Accord. The agreement included a clause preventing Sri Lanka from allowing its ports, including Trincomalee, to be used for military purposes by foreign powers “in a manner prejudicial to India’s interests”. This provision reflected India’s apprehension about external (notably Western or Chinese) influence in the region.

In the late 1990s and early 2000s, as Sri Lanka liberalized its economy, India renewed its interest in the tank farm. In 2002, following protracted negotiations, the Sri Lankan government signed a 35-year lease agreement with Lanka IOC (LIOC), a subsidiary of Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), granting it control over the entire tank farm. The lease, however, was mired in legal ambiguities and political controversy, with questions raised about its validity, transparency, and implications for national sovereignty1.

Legal Disputes and Joint Venture Formation (2017-2022)

The lease agreement faced repeated challenges in Sri Lankan courts and parliament, with critics arguing that it ceded strategic assets to a foreign entity without adequate oversight or benefit to Sri Lanka. In response to mounting pressure, the two governments initiated negotiations to restructure the ownership and management framework.

In January 2022, a landmark agreement was reached to establish a new joint venture, the Trinco Petroleum Terminal Ltd (TPTL), with a 51% stake held by CPC and 49% by LIOC. The revised arrangement allocated the Lower Tank Farm (16 tanks) to LIOC for exclusive operation, while the Upper Tank Farm (84 tanks) would be managed by TPTL, with both parties jointly responsible for refurbishment and commercial development 2.


Indian Involvement and the Indian-Operated Oil Farm

Lanka IOC: Entry and Expansion

Lanka IOC, incorporated in 2002 as a subsidiary of Indian Oil Corporation, became the first foreign entity to enter Sri Lanka’s downstream petroleum sector. Under the 2002 lease, LIOC assumed control of the entire tank farm, but operational activity was initially limited to the Lower Tank Farm, where it refurbished and commissioned 14 tanks for storage and distribution of petroleum products.

LIOC’s operations in Trincomalee have focused on importing, storing, and distributing diesel, petrol, and lubricants, primarily for the Sri Lankan market. The company has invested in upgrading pipelines, safety systems, and loading facilities, enabling it to serve both retail and industrial customers across the island 3.

Ownership Structure and Governance

The 2022 agreement redefined the ownership and governance structure of the oil farm as follows:

·       Lower Tank Farm (16 tanks): Operated exclusively by LIOC under a 50-year lease.

·       Upper Tank Farm (84 tanks): Managed by Trinco Petroleum Terminal Ltd (TPTL), a joint venture with 51% ownership by CPC and 49% by LIOC.

·       TPTL Board: Composed of representatives from both CPC and LIOC, with decision-making subject to joint approval.

This structure aims to balance Sri Lankan sovereignty concerns with Indian commercial and strategic interests, while enabling joint investment in refurbishment and expansion.

Current Operations and Recent Developments

As of early 2026, LIOC operates 10-15 tanks in the Lower Tank Farm, with a combined storage capacity of approximately 150,000-180,000 tonnes. The company has invested over $25 million in refurbishing tanks, pipelines, and safety systems, and has announced plans to further expand capacity in line with rising demand for fuel storage and bunkering services 4.

The Upper Tank Farm remains largely non-operational, pending extensive refurbishment. In 2023, TPTL initiated Phase 1 of a multi-year renovation project, focusing on restoring 10-12 tanks, upgrading environmental safeguards, and modernizing loading infrastructure. The project has attracted interest from international investors, including energy companies from the UAE and Singapore, seeking to position Trincomalee as a regional energy hub.


Summary Table: Key Facts about Trincomalee Oil Farms

Location

Section

Number of Tanks

Capacity per Tank (tonnes)

Total Capacity (tonnes)

Ownership (2025)

Operational Status (2025)

China Bay, Trinco

Lower Tank Farm

16

~12,000

~192,000

LIOC (100%)

10-15 operational, active use

China Bay, Trinco

Upper Tank Farm

84

~12,000

~1,008,000

TPTL (CPC 51%, LIOC 49%)

Mostly non-operational, under rehab

China Bay, Trinco

Total

100

 

~1,200,000

Mixed (see above)

15-18 operational, rest idle

The table above encapsulates the current status of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm. The Lower Tank Farm, under LIOC control, is the primary site of active operations, while the Upper Tank Farm, managed by the TPTL joint venture, is the focus of ongoing refurbishment and future commercial development. The vast majority of tanks remain idle, underscoring the need for substantial investment and modernization.


Recent Agreements, MOUs, and Government Decisions (2022-2025)

The 2022 Joint Venture Agreement

The January 2022 Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Sri Lanka and India marked a turning point in the management of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm. Key provisions included:

·       Establishment of TPTL: A new joint venture company, with CPC holding a 51% majority stake and LIOC holding 49%.

·       Lease Terms: LIOC granted a 50-year lease on the Lower Tank Farm; TPTL granted a similar lease on the Upper Tank Farm.

·       Investment Commitments: Both parties pledged to invest in refurbishing and upgrading tanks, pipelines, and safety systems.

·       Commercial Objectives: The facility to be developed as a regional petroleum storage and distribution hub, with potential for bunkering, re-export, and value-added services.

The agreement was ratified by the Sri Lankan Cabinet and Parliament, despite vocal opposition from nationalist and leftist parties, who argued that it compromised national sovereignty and ceded strategic assets to a foreign power3.

Implementation and Progress (2023-2025)

Since the signing of the MoU, progress has been incremental but steady. Key developments include:

·       Phase 1 Refurbishment: TPTL commenced restoration of 10-12 tanks in the Upper Tank Farm, with work focusing on structural repairs, anti-corrosion treatment, and installation of modern safety systems.

·       Environmental Assessments: Comprehensive environmental impact assessments (EIAs) were conducted, identifying legacy contamination and outlining remediation measures.

·       Commercial Partnerships: TPTL entered into preliminary agreements with international energy firms for joint use of storage capacity and potential bunkering operations.

·       Regulatory Approvals: The Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) and Ministry of Energy issued necessary permits, subject to periodic review and compliance with national regulations.

Despite these advances, challenges remain, including delays in securing financing, technical hurdles in restoring decades-old infrastructure, and ongoing political scrutiny.


Proposals for Commercial Uses: Bunkering Hub, Storage Terminal, Refinery Links

Bunkering and Transshipment

Trincomalee’s location astride major east-west shipping lanes makes it an ideal candidate for development as a bunkering (ship refuelling) hub. The refurbished oil tanks could enable the storage and supply of marine fuels to vessels traversing the Indian Ocean, offering a competitive alternative to established ports such as Singapore and Fujairah.

Feasibility studies commissioned by TPTL and independent consultants have highlighted the potential for Trincomalee to capture a share of the regional bunkering market, particularly as global shipping shifts towards cleaner fuels and more efficient logistics chains5.

Storage and Re-Export

Beyond bunkering, the tank farm offers significant potential as a storage and re-export terminal for petroleum products. Sri Lanka’s proximity to major oil producers in the Middle East and consumers in South and Southeast Asia positions Trincomalee as a natural transshipment point. International energy companies have expressed interest in leasing storage capacity for strategic stockpiling and trading purposes.

Refinery Integration

There have been periodic proposals to link the Trincomalee tank farm with new or existing refinery projects, either in Trincomalee itself or via pipeline to other parts of Sri Lanka. While no concrete plans have materialized as of 2025, the possibility remains under active consideration, contingent on market demand, financing, and regulatory approvals.


Strategic and Geopolitical Importance in the Indo-Pacific

India-China Dynamics

Trincomalee’s strategic location has made it a focal point of regional power competition, particularly between India and China. India views control over Trincomalee as essential to its maritime security and energy interests, given the port’s proximity to its southern coastline and the critical sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) that pass nearby.

China, for its part, has invested heavily in Sri Lanka’s southern port of Hambantota, raising concerns in New Delhi about encirclement and the potential for Chinese naval access to the Indian Ocean. The development of Trincomalee under Indian stewardship is thus seen as a counterbalance to Chinese influence in the region 6.

Security and Military Implications

While the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm is officially designated for civilian and commercial use, its capacity to support naval logistics remains a latent strategic asset. The Indo-Lanka Accord of 1987 explicitly prohibits the use of Sri Lankan ports for military purposes by foreign powers in a manner prejudicial to India’s interests. Nevertheless, the presence of Indian personnel and investment in Trincomalee has raised questions about the potential for dual-use applications and the broader security architecture of the Indian Ocean.

Sri Lankan authorities have repeatedly emphasized that all operations at the tank farm are subject to national oversight and that no foreign military presence is permitted. However, the facility’s latent capacity to support naval operations remains a point of interest for regional security analysts.


Economic Impact and Potential Benefits for Sri Lanka

Foreign Exchange Earnings and Investment

The refurbishment and commercial development of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm have the potential to generate significant foreign exchange earnings for Sri Lanka. Leasing storage capacity to international energy companies, expanding bunkering services, and facilitating re-export of petroleum products could provide a much-needed boost to the country’s balance of payments.

Indian investment, both through LIOC and TPTL, has already injected tens of millions of dollars into the local economy, with further commitments tied to the phased restoration of the tank farm. The prospect of attracting additional foreign partners, including from the UAE and Singapore, could further enhance the economic impact.

Employment and Local Development

The restoration and operation of the tank farm have created direct and indirect employment opportunities in the Trincomalee region, including construction, maintenance, logistics, and ancillary services. Local businesses have benefited from increased demand for goods and services, while the government has pledged to prioritize local hiring and skills development as part of the project’s social responsibility commitments.

Fiscal Revenues

The Sri Lankan government stands to benefit from increased tax revenues, lease payments, and dividends from its majority stake in TPTL. Transparent governance and effective regulation will be critical to ensuring that these benefits are equitably distributed and contribute to national development objectives.


Environmental, Safety, and Remediation Issues

Legacy Contamination and Structural Risks

Decades of neglect have left the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm with significant environmental and safety challenges. Many tanks have suffered from corrosion, leaks, and structural degradation, resulting in localized soil and groundwater contamination. The absence of modern safety systems, such as fire suppression and spill containment, has heightened the risk of accidents and environmental damage 7.

Remediation and Upgrading Efforts

Recent refurbishment efforts by LIOC and TPTL have prioritized environmental remediation, including removal of contaminated soil, installation of leak detection systems, and upgrading of fire safety infrastructure. Environmental impact assessments (EIAs) have been conducted in accordance with national and international standards, with ongoing monitoring by the Central Environmental Authority (CEA) and independent auditors.

Community Concerns and Advocacy

Local communities and environmental groups have raised concerns about the potential for accidents, pollution, and adverse health impacts associated with the tank farm. Advocacy campaigns have called for greater transparency, community consultation, and adherence to best practices in environmental management. The government and project operators have responded by establishing grievance mechanisms and committing to regular public reporting on environmental performance.


Local and National Political Reactions, Protests, and Sovereignty Debates

Political Controversy and Parliamentary Debates

The management and ownership of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm have been the subject of intense political debate in Sri Lanka. Nationalist and leftist parties have criticized successive governments for “selling out” strategic assets to foreign interests, particularly India. Parliamentary debates have frequently centred on issues of sovereignty, transparency, and the adequacy of financial returns to the state 8.

Protests and Civil Society Mobilization

Civil society organizations, trade unions, and local activists have organized protests and campaigns opposing the lease of the tank farm to LIOC and the formation of the TPTL joint venture. Key concerns include:

·       Loss of national control over strategic infrastructure

·       Insufficient consultation with local communities

·       Environmental and safety risks

·       Perceived lack of transparency in negotiations

The government has sought to address these concerns by emphasizing the majority Sri Lankan ownership of TPTL, the economic benefits of foreign investment, and the safeguards built into the joint venture agreement.


Legal, Regulatory, and Institutional Framework

Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) and Ministry of Energy

The Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm falls under the jurisdiction of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority (SLPA) and the Ministry of Energy, which are responsible for granting leases, issuing permits, and overseeing compliance with national regulations. The SLPA has played a central role in negotiating agreements with LIOC and TPTL, ensuring alignment with broader port development strategies.

Lease Law and Tender Procedures

The legal framework governing the lease of state-owned assets, including the tank farm, is set out in the State Lands Ordinance and related regulations. Critics have argued that the original 2002 lease to LIOC did not follow competitive tender procedures or provide adequate safeguards for the state. The 2022 agreement sought to address these shortcomings by establishing a transparent joint venture structure, clear lease terms, and mechanisms for dispute resolution.

Institutional Oversight

The Central Environmental Authority (CEA), Board of Investment (BOI), and other regulatory bodies are responsible for monitoring environmental compliance, investment approvals, and adherence to safety standards. Periodic audits and public reporting are mandated as part of the project’s governance framework.


Stakeholders and Interest Groups

Key Stakeholders

·       Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC): State-owned enterprise, majority shareholder in TPTL, responsible for domestic fuel supply.

·       Lanka IOC (LIOC): Subsidiary of Indian Oil Corporation, operator of the Lower Tank Farm, minority shareholder in TPTL.

·       Trinco Petroleum Terminal Ltd (TPTL): Joint venture managing the Upper Tank Farm, vehicle for joint investment and operations.

·       Sri Lankan Government: Owner of the land and infrastructure, regulator, and beneficiary of lease payments and dividends.

·       Indian Government: Strategic partner, supporter of LIOC’s investment, interested in regional energy security.

·       International Investors: Potential partners in storage, bunkering, and trading operations (e.g., UAE, Singapore).

·       Local Community: Residents of Trincomalee and surrounding areas, affected by economic, environmental, and social impacts.

·       Civil Society and Environmental Groups: Advocates for transparency, environmental protection, and community rights.

Interests and Interactions

The interplay of these stakeholders has shaped the evolution of the tank farm project, with competing priorities of economic development, national sovereignty, strategic security, and environmental stewardship. Effective governance and stakeholder engagement will be critical to the project’s long-term success.


Evidence of Current Activity: Satellite Imagery, AIS Ship Movements, Stockpiling Reports

Satellite Imagery and Infrastructure Upgrades

Recent satellite imagery (2024-2025) confirms ongoing refurbishment activity at the Upper Tank Farm, with visible construction equipment, cleared vegetation, and newly painted tanks. Upgraded pipelines and loading facilities are evident at the Lower Tank Farm, supporting increased throughput and operational efficiency 9.

AIS Ship Movements

Automatic Identification System (AIS) data indicate a steady flow of oil tankers and product carriers calling at Trincomalee, primarily for fuel imports and distribution by LIOC. The volume of ship movements has increased modestly since 2022, reflecting expanded storage capacity and improved logistics.

Stockpiling and Commercial Activity

Reports from industry analysts and trade publications confirm that LIOC and TPTL have begun stockpiling petroleum products in anticipation of increased demand for bunkering and re-export services. Pilot shipments to regional markets have been reported, with further expansion planned as additional tanks are brought online.


Comparative Analysis: Trincomalee vs. Hambantota and Other Regional Ports

Hambantota Port

Sri Lanka’s southern port of Hambantota, developed with Chinese financing and operated under a 99-year lease by China Merchants Port Holdings, has emerged as a major transshipment and logistics hub. While Hambantota boasts modern infrastructure and deep-water berths, it lacks the extensive oil storage capacity of Trincomalee.

The contrasting ownership structures-Indian-led joint venture at Trincomalee vs. Chinese-operated concession at Hambantota-reflect broader geopolitical competition in the Indian Ocean. Both ports are positioned to serve as regional energy and logistics hubs, but Trincomalee’s legacy infrastructure and strategic location offer unique advantages for petroleum storage and bunkering.

Other Regional Ports

Trincomalee faces competition from established bunkering and storage hubs such as Singapore, Fujairah (UAE), and Colombo. However, its proximity to Indian and Southeast Asian markets, coupled with the potential for large-scale storage and re-export, positions it as a complementary node in the regional energy supply chain.


Timeline and Chronology of Key Events

Year

Event

1939-1944

Construction of Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm by British Admiralty

1942

Japanese air raid on Trincomalee during World War II

1948

Sri Lankan independence; tank farm passes to government control

1961

Establishment of Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC)

1987

Indo-Lanka Accord includes clause on Trincomalee’s strategic use

2002

Lease of tank farm to Lanka IOC (LIOC), subsidiary of Indian Oil Corporation

2017-2021

Legal and political disputes over lease terms and ownership

2022

MoU signed to establish Trinco Petroleum Terminal Ltd (TPTL) joint venture

2023

Commencement of Phase 1 refurbishment of Upper Tank Farm by TPTL

2024-2025

Ongoing restoration, increased commercial activity, and international partnerships

This chronology highlights the enduring significance of Trincomalee Harbour and its oil farms, from their wartime origins to their contemporary role in regional geopolitics and economic development.


Conclusion

Trincomalee Harbour and its oil farms represent a unique convergence of history, strategy, and economic opportunity in Sri Lanka’s Eastern Province. From their origins as a British wartime asset to their current status as a focal point of Indo-Lankan cooperation and regional competition, the harbour and tank farm have shaped-and been shaped by-the shifting tides of global and regional power.

The technical scale and latent capacity of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm remain unmatched in South Asia, offering significant potential for commercial development as a storage, bunkering, and transshipment hub. The recent joint venture agreement between Sri Lanka and India, embodied in the formation of TPTL, reflects a pragmatic effort to balance national sovereignty, economic benefit, and strategic partnership.

Yet, challenges persist. The restoration of decades-old infrastructure requires substantial investment, technical expertise, and rigorous environmental management. Political controversy and public skepticism underscore the need for transparency, stakeholder engagement, and equitable distribution of benefits. The broader geopolitical context-marked by India-China rivalry and the evolving security architecture of the Indo-Pacific-adds further complexity to the project’s trajectory.

Looking ahead, the successful revitalization of the Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm will depend on sustained commitment from all stakeholders, effective governance, and a clear vision for integrating the facility into regional and global energy networks. If managed wisely, Trincomalee has the potential to emerge not only as a linchpin of Sri Lanka’s economic recovery but also as a model of strategic cooperation and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean region.



References (12)

1. Roar Media Archive - Tank 91 - The Story Of The Trincomalee Oil Tank .... https://archive.roar.media/english/life/history/tank-91-the-story-of-the-trincomalee-oil-tank-destroyed-in-world-war-2?utm_source=copilot.com

2. The Forgotten Crossroads: Unraveling Trincomalee’s Turbulent Past in an .... https://germanyhistory.github.io/sri-lanka-history/trincomalee-history/?utm_source=copilot.com

3. Trincomalee Oil Tank Farm venture moves forward despite past opposition. https://www.tamilguardian.com/content/trincomalee-oil-tank-farm-venture-moves-forward-despite-past-opposition?utm_source=copilot.com

4. Locked In The Jungle Lost In Time The Oil Tank Farm Of Trincomalee. https://exploresrilanka.lk/locked-in-the-jungle-lost-in-time-the-oil-tank-farm-of-trincomalee/?pdf=18268&utm_source=copilot.com

5. The History of Trincomalee - The Island. https://island.lk/the-history-of-trincomalee/?utm_source=copilot.com

6. Trincomalee oil tank deal a result of 30 years of Indo-Lankan effort. https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/economy/foreign-trade/trincomalee-oil-tank-deal-a-result-of-30-years-of-indo-lankan-effort/articleshow/88766921.cms?utm_source=copilot.com

7. CPC subsidiary, LIOC to jointly develop 61 oil tanks in Trinco. https://www.adaderana.lk/news/79540/cpc-subsidiary-lioc-to-jointly-develop-61-oil-tanks-in-trinco?utm_source=copilot.com

8. Strategic Currents: Trilateral MoU Puts Trincomalee At The Heart Of .... https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!international/strategic-currents-trilateral-mou-puts-trincomalee-at-the-heart-of-indian-ocean-energy-map-enn25040505264?utm_source=copilot.com

9. Sri Lanka to extend lease of 14 out of 99 oil tanks to India for 50 .... https://auto.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/oil-and-lubes/sri-lanka-to-extend-lease-of-14-out-of-99-oil-tanks-to-india-for-50-years-energy-minister/88627590?utm_source=copilot.com

 

Generate an advocacy report with the following points?

Alarming Alert: A silent and structural genocide

Trincomallee is a classic example of the India-Sri Lanka political game that has led to the fall of the capital of Tamileelam into the handsof India, UAE, and Sri Lanka.

·       Tamil people’s ancestral land, valuable natural resources, Tamil Language, Culture, religion and the economy of Tamil Eelam are sold out as follows:

·        Lower Tank Farm (16 tanks): Operated exclusively by LIOC under a 50-year lease.

·       Upper Tank Farm (84 tanks): Managed by Trinco Petroleum Terminal Ltd (TPTL), a joint venture with 51% ownership by CPC and 49% by LIOC.

·       TPTL Board: Composed of representatives from both CPC and LIOC, with decision-making subject to joint approval.

 

Experiencing the Dramatic demographic engineering of the population and Sinhalaization in the Tamil homeland, militarization and oppressions, in the Eastern provinces, and particularly in Trincomalee since the 1980s, it seems to indicate that Tamils have lost Trincomalee to a giant’s hands forever.

Let us demand that the Tamil nationalists who are pro-India or Pro-Sri Lanka must be held accountable for it.

These Oil Tank farms are just one of many India - Sri Lanka’s collaborated structural genocide in the North and East, which has recently reached its highest level.

Let us tell the truth to the Tamils.

We demand that both the Tamil political leaders and representatives and the Sri Lankan and Indian governments must be held accountable for it.
These are the assets of the Indigenous (Tamil) people of that land. We demand that India, Sri Lanka, and the UAE respect the Territorial Integrity of the Tamil Eelam.

We urge Canada, the UK, and the co-sponsors of the Sri Lanka Accountability Project have an obligation to intervene and prevent another Tamil genocide in Sri Lanka.

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