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Two India-bound LPG tankers safely transit Hormuz
New Delhi: Two Indian-flagged LPG carriers have successfully navigated the volatile Strait of Hormuz, offering relief amid ongoing tensions in West Asia. The vessels, BW TYR and BW ELM, are transporting a combined cargo of nearly 94,000 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), equivalent to roughly a day’s supply for India.
According to an official statement from the petroleum ministry, both ships have passed through the sensitive maritime corridor without incident and are now headed towards Indian ports.
BW TYR is expected to dock in Mumbai by March 31, while BW ELM is scheduled to arrive at New Mangalore on April 1. Their safe transit comes at a crucial time, as India grapples with supply disruptions due to the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
India relies heavily on imports to meet its domestic LPG demand, with nearly 60% sourced from abroad. A significant portion of these imports around 90% comes from West Asia, making the Strait of Hormuz a critical route for energy supplies.
In recent days, multiple Indian-flagged vessels have successfully completed similar journeys. Tankers Pine Gas and Jag Vasant delivered over 92,000 tonnes of LPG between March 26 and 28. Earlier, MT Shivalik and MT Nanda Devi transported comparable volumes to ports in Gujarat.
Additionally, oil tanker Jag Laadki, carrying crude from the UAE, reached Mundra earlier this month, while Jag Prakash safely transited the strait en route to Africa.
Despite heightened tensions, Iran has allowed passage to non-hostile vessels that coordinate with its authorities. However, several Indian vessels, including LPG carriers Jag Vikram, Green Asha, and Green Sanvi, remain in the western part of the strait awaiting safe passage.
The Directorate General of Shipping continues to monitor the situation closely through a 24/7 control room, assisting vessels and ensuring the safety of Indian seafarers. So far, more than 900 crew members have been safely repatriated.
The successful transit of these tankers underscores India’s efforts to secure critical energy supplies amid geopolitical uncertainty.
