India Welcomes Two LPG Tankers Safely Through Strait of Hormuz
Synopsis
Two LPG tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have navigated the Strait of Hormuz successfully, carrying 92,700 MT of LPG to India. Their arrival is expected soon at Mundra and Kandla ports, marking a significant maritime achievement amidst regional tensions.
Key Takeaways
Shivalik and Nanda Devi are carrying 92,700 MT of LPG.
Expected arrival at Mundra and Kandla ports on March 16 and 17, respectively.
22 Indian-flagged vessels remain in the Persian Gulf.
Safe passage granted by Iran for Indian tankers.
The Strait of Hormuz is critical for global oil and gas exports.
New Delhi, March 14 (NationPress) Two LPG tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz and are en route to India with an estimated cargo of 92,700 metric tonnes of LPG, the government announced on Saturday.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, the special secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, stated during a press briefing that these vessels are expected to dock at the ports of Mundra and Kandla on March 16 and March 17, respectively.
He added, “Currently, there are 22 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf, manned by a total of 611 seafarers.”
Among the 24 vessels in the region, Shivalik and Nanda Devi have safely passed through the Strait. Both tankers are operated by the state-owned Shipping Corporation of India Limited.
Sinha reassured that all Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf are secure. “In the past 24 hours, no incidents concerning them have been reported. The 24 Indian-flagged vessels are currently located west of the Strait of Hormuz,” he noted during the briefing.
In related news, Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, mentioned that Tehran has permitted several Indian vessels to transit the Strait of Hormuz, though he refrained from providing specific operational details.
“Yes, we have granted permission, but I cannot disclose the exact number. As the Ambassador of Iran to India, I will continue to monitor this matter closely, as Iran and India share a rich historical bond. Although there was a slight delay, the passage has been facilitated,” Fathali stated at the annual India Today Conclave in Delhi.
Following the safe passage of these two LPG carriers, more tankers are poised to traverse the conflict-affected area after Iran granted safe passage to Indian-flagged tankers, reliable sources informed IANS on Saturday.
The Strait of Hormuz is recognized as one of the most crucial maritime corridors globally, with approximately 20% of the world's oil and gas exports passing through it.
Point of View
It is essential to highlight the successful navigation of the two Indian-flagged tankers through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route. This achievement not only ensures the safe passage of vital resources but also underscores the importance of diplomatic relations between India and Iran.
NationPress
5 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the names of the two LPG tankers?
The two LPG tankers are Shivalik and Nanda Devi.
How much LPG are the tankers carrying?
The tankers are carrying approximately 92,700 metric tonnes of LPG.
When are the tankers expected to arrive in India?
The tankers are expected to arrive at Mundra on March 16 and Kandla on March 17.
How many Indian-flagged vessels are in the Persian Gulf?
There are currently 22 Indian-flagged vessels in the Persian Gulf.
Is the safety of Indian seafarers ensured in the region?
Yes, all Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf are reported to be safe.
