An Indian-flagged LPG tanker has successfully reached Mundra Port in Gujarat after navigating the sensitive Strait of Hormuz, which has recently witnessed disruptions due to tensions in West Asia.
The vessel, Shivalik, was among two Indian LPG carriers that were permitted by Iranian authorities to pass through the crucial maritime route. The second ship, Nanda Devi, is also travelling towards India and is expected to arrive shortly.
According to officials from Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the two ships had been scheduled to reach India on March 16 and March 17 respectively. Both vessels are transporting large quantities of liquefied petroleum gas meant for Indian ports.
Together, the ships are carrying nearly 92,700 metric tonnes of LPG. The cargo is headed to Mundra Port and Kandla Port in Gujarat.
Officials also confirmed that all Indian seafarers operating in the Persian Gulf region remain safe and that no incidents involving them have been reported recently.
At present, 24 Indian-flagged ships were operating in the Persian Gulf to the west of the Strait of Hormuz. After the movement of the two LPG tankers, 22 vessels with around 611 Indian crew members remain in the area.
Meanwhile, S. Jaishankar, India’s External Affairs Minister, said that direct communication with Iran is helping ensure the safe movement of ships through the waterway.
In an interview with the Financial Times, Jaishankar explained that India is working closely with Tehran to restore normal shipping operations through the route, which accounts for around 20 per cent of the world’s oil trade.
He said discussions between the two sides are already producing some positive outcomes, including the recent transit of the two LPG tankers.
However, he clarified that there is no universal arrangement for all Indian ships yet, and permissions are currently being handled individually.
A representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader in India, Abdul Majid Hakeem Ilahi, also indicated that Indian ships would be allowed to use the vital sea passage.
He said Iran’s diplomatic mission had attempted to facilitate safe movement for certain Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
The development comes as countries closely monitor shipping routes in the Gulf region, which are critical for global energy supplies and international trade.
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