Two Indian LPG carriers safely cross Strait of Hormuz amidst Gulf tensions
Two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz and are en route to India, carrying a combined 92,712 tonnes of cooking gas. This development was announced by Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary at the Ministry of Shipping and Waterways, amidst heightened tensions in the Persian Gulf. Of 24 Indian vessels in the region, 22 remain on standby. India, a major LPG importer, faces challenges in securing alternative sources due to the Persian Gulf being out of bounds, with U.S. Gulf Coast imports taking two months for a round-trip.
Key Points
- Two Indian LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have safely navigated the Strait of Hormuz, carrying significant quantities of cooking gas to India.
- The Ministry of Shipping and Waterways confirmed the safe passage, highlighting the ongoing efforts to ensure energy supply amidst regional instability.
- India relies heavily on LPG imports, with a substantial portion historically coming through the Persian Gulf.
- The current geopolitical situation necessitates India to explore and secure alternative LPG sources, such as the U.S. Gulf Coast, despite longer voyage durations.
- The government has instructed LPG carriers about priority rebirthing for continued energy supply.
Exam Facts
- LPG carriers Shivalik and Nanda Devi carried approximately 46,000 tonnes each, totaling 92,712 tonnes of cooking gas.
- Shivalik is expected to reach Mundra Port by March 16, 2026, and Nanda Devi to Kandla Port by March 17, 2026.
- India imports about 200 lakh tonnes of LPG annually, with 10% from the U.S. Gulf Coast under a 2025 contract.
- Rajesh Kumar Sinha is the Special Secretary at the Ministry of Shipping and Waterways.
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