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A Cyprus-flagged liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier unloaded its cargo and left PetroChina Jiangsu LNG Terminal at Yangkou Port in Nantong, Jiangsu province, on Sept 22, bringing the port's 2026 LNG throughput to more than 5 million metric tons.

The LNG imports have bolstered gas supply for autumn and winter, while strengthening industrial stability and energy security in the Yangtze River Delta.

A Cyprus-flagged LNG carrier berths at PetroChina Jiangsu LNG Terminal at Yangkou Port in Rudong, Nantong, on Sept 22. [Photo/Nantong Daily]

Local maritime authorities have ensured the safety of all workers and cargo, from entry reporting and route navigation to berthing, mooring, closed unloading and departure.

Before operations began, the authorities assessed weather and hydrological conditions and checked ship equipment, cold protection devices and crew readiness. Approvals were streamlined through online reporting and dedicated liaison personnel.

The authorities also coordinated with terminal operators, pilotage services and meteorological authorities on emergency plans and regular joint drills, improving emergency response in adverse weather.

The terminal, a key Yangtze River Delta gas distribution node and one of Jiangsu's largest clean energy hubs, supports winter heating, urban peak shaving and emergency gas storage.

LNG carriers are high-risk vessels to their immense size, limited maneuverability and dangerous cryogenic cargo. Yangkou Port's tidal changes and dense vessel traffic also demand precise navigational control.