New Delhi: In a development that will bring relief to India’s energy supply chain, two more Indian LPG carriers have now crossed the Strait of Hormuz and are moving towards the Arabian Sea.
The two tankers were stranded in the Persian Gulf amid the escalating crisis. The vessels Jag Vasant and Pine Gas, left early on Monday morning and are already out in international waters after receiving clearance from Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), government officials said.
The two vessels are expected to reach Indian shores soon, marking a crucial step in restoring supply lines strained by the ongoing conflict.
The ships were held back for days after Iran threatened attacks on cargo vessels sailing through the Strait. This effectively blocked the vital corridor through which nearly 10% of the world’s energy supply passes, as reported by News 18.
The Indian Navy played a key role in facilitating the clearance, coordinating with Iranian authorities to ensure safe passage, sources revealed. This movement is being considered extremely crucial as restrictions have been imposed in India on the commercial use of LPG. This has resulted in some resentment.
The internal challenges within the IRGC, particularly following the death of senior Iranian leader Ali Larijani, may have contributed to delays in decision-making, officials indicated. With the immediate situation stabilising, clearances are now being granted on a case-by-case basis.
The government is hopeful that more such approvals will follow, easing pressure on India’s LPG supply chain. Authorities are also banking on increased domestic production to cushion any further disruptions.
