SCI is a pioneer in the field of lighterage operations in India. A dedicated "Lighterage Cell" was set up in 1975, acquired the necessary equipment and physically conducted open sea Ship-to-Ship (STS) lighterage operations on the coast of India.

Offshore STS lighterage operations were thus introduced on the Indian coast by SCI in 1975 developed to maximise utilisation of large tankers which could not enter the port at their fully laden draft. The operations soon became the backbone of crude oil transportation and supplies to Indian refineries.