India Receives LPG Carriers Pine Gas and Jag Vasant from Hormuz
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New Delhi, March 24 (NationPress) The Indian government announced on Tuesday that two liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carriers, Pine Gas and Jag Vasant, have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and are en route to India.
During an inter-ministerial briefing, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, stated that the Pine Gas is expected to dock at New Mangalore port on March 27, carrying 45,000 metric tonnes of LPG.
Furthermore, Jag Vasant is set to arrive at Kandla port on March 26 with a load of 47,600 metric tonnes of LPG. There are also twenty Indian-flagged vessels positioned to the west of the Strait of Hormuz, Sinha noted.
Previously, tracking data indicated that the vessels Jag Vasant and Pine Gas were traversing the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz after receiving clearance for safe passage. Reports suggest that the complete journey through the strait usually takes about 14 hours.
This announcement comes amidst escalating tensions in the region, particularly following recent US and Israeli military actions in late February that have impacted this critical global shipping route for oil and gas.
The Jag Vasant loaded its LPG in Kuwait, while the Pine Gas sourced its cargo from Ruwais in the UAE. These vessels had been stalled in the region due to the prevailing tensions but have now been permitted to proceed.
Earlier this month, two additional Indian-flagged LPG carriers successfully completed their respective journeys through the strait.
In related developments, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday reiterated the government's strategies to shield citizens from global oil price fluctuations, while emphasizing the Center's commitment to maintaining operational energy supply routes.
While addressing the Rajya Sabha concerning the crisis in West Asia, PM Modi made a compelling case for national self-reliance across all sectors, including global fuel transport and maritime pathways.
He stated, “Atmanirbharta is the sole remedy to protect the nation and its citizens from international disturbances. Currently, about 90 percent of Indian trade relies on foreign vessels, which exacerbates our vulnerability during global conflicts or wars.”
The Prime Minister also mentioned that the government plans to invest a substantial Rs 70,000 crore towards promoting 'Made in India' ships.