After Iran allowed Indian-flagged tankers safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz during the US-Israel conflict, the Indian LPG tanker ‘Shivalik’ has successfully navigated the strait. The second LPG vessel, ‘Nanda Devi’, has also safely passed through this crucial oil route. Government sources revealed that the Indian Navy is escorting the Shivalik, expected to reach an Indian port, possibly Mumbai or Kandla, within the next two days.
Meanwhile, the ‘Nanda Devi’ is transporting over 46,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which is vital for India’s energy supply chain. Both vessels are under close naval guidance to ensure their secure transit through the strategically important waters. This development follows discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian concerning the flow of goods and energy.
Iran’s Ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, hinted that Indian ships could soon receive safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have disrupted transit through the critical waterway. Fathali emphasized the common interests shared by India and Iran in the region, citing India’s assistance in various fields post the conflict. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi recently announced Tehran’s permission for ships from certain countries to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Strait of Hormuz is a crucial shipping lane through which 20% of the world’s oil and gas exports flow. The Ministry of Ports and Shipping reported that 28 Indian-flagged vessels are operating in the Persian Gulf region, with all Indian ships and crew under active safety monitoring. Among these vessels, 24 are located west of the Strait of Hormuz, carrying 677 Indian seafarers, while four vessels are situated east of the strait with 101 Indian seafarers on board.
