Amid growing concerns over fuel supply disruptions, India has received a major relief on the energy front. Two large LPG cargo ships carrying cooking gas for India have safely crossed the strategically important Strait of Hormuz and are expected to arrive at Indian ports next week, according to government officials.
New Delhi: As tensions continue to rise in West Asia due to ongoing geopolitical conflicts, India has received encouraging news regarding its energy security. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed on Thursday that two LPG vessels bound for India have safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz without any disruption.
Additional Secretary of the ministry, Mukesh Mangal, stated that the vessels are expected to reach Indian shores by the end of this week. Together, the ships are transporting a total of 66,392 metric tons of LPG, providing much-needed reassurance amid fears of supply interruptions in global energy routes.
Details of the LPG Vessels:
1. SYMI (Marshall Islands-flagged vessel):
The SYMI is carrying 19,965 metric tons of LPG. The ship successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz on May 13 and is expected to arrive at Kandla Port in Gujarat on May 16. The vessel has 21 foreign crew members onboard.
2. NV SUNSHINE (Vietnam-flagged vessel):
The NV SUNSHINE is transporting 46,427 metric tons of LPG to India. It crossed the Hormuz Strait safely on May 14 and is likely to reach New Mangalore Port on May 18. The ship currently has 24 foreign crew members onboard.
Indian Vessel ‘Haji Ali’ Attacked:
While the safe movement of LPG vessels has brought relief, authorities also reported an unfortunate maritime incident. Mukesh Mangal revealed that an Indian-flagged wooden vessel named Haji Ali came under attack and sank on the morning of May 13.
The vessel was travelling from Somalia to Sharjah in the UAE when the incident occurred. Fortunately, all 14 crew members aboard were rescued safely by the Omani Coast Guard and have since reached Dibba Port in Oman.
Rising Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz:
The Strait of Hormuz continues to remain under global focus due to escalating tensions in the region. Following military actions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran earlier this year, the area has witnessed heightened security concerns affecting oil, gas, and cargo shipments passing through the vital trade route.
Reports suggest that shipping movements in the region are facing increased restrictions and monitoring, raising concerns over global energy supplies and transportation costs.
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over diplomatic negotiations with Tehran, stating that discussions would not move forward until direct resolutions on nuclear issues are achieved. He also claimed that Iran’s economy is under severe pressure, increasing the urgency to reopen and stabilize shipping operations through the Strait of Hormuz.
