Amid heightened attention on global shipping routes, Indian-flagged vessels continue to navigate the Strait of Hormuz. One of the key developments is the expected arrival of the LPG tanker Shivalik at Mundra Port in Gujarat on Monday after successfully crossing the crucial maritime corridor, amid rising tensions due to the ongoing US-Israel-Iran war.
The vessel was among two Indian-flagged ships recently granted transit clearance by Iranian authorities. Another LPG tanker, Nanda Devi, also completed the transit through the strait last week. The ship is expected to arrive at Kandla Port on March 17.
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The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most vital energy shipping routes in the world, with a significant share of global oil and gas supplies passing through it. Despite heightened monitoring and logistical challenges, Indian vessels and seafarers operating in the region continue to navigate safely, according to government officials.
Here’s a quick breakdown of key details about Indian vessels sailing through the region.
Nearly 93,000 Metric Tonnes of LPG coming home: The two LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, are transporting a combined cargo of around 92,700 metric tonnes of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) equivalent to refills for about 65 lakh cylinders for millions of households across the country.
22 Ships With Over 600 Seafarers Still in the Area: According to officials from the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, 22 Indian-flagged vessels remain in the western Persian Gulf region, carrying around 611 Indian seafarers. Authorities say all crew members are safe and no shipping incidents involving Indian seafarers have been reported in the last 24 hours.
Shipping Control Room Handling Thousands of Queries: Since the activation of the Directorate General of Shipping control room, officials have handled 2,995 phone calls and over 5,357 emails from seafarers, families and maritime stakeholders seeking updates and assistance.
Hundreds of Seafarers Repatriated So Far: The Directorate General of Shipping has also facilitated the safe repatriation of 276 Indian seafarers from the Gulf region so far. Notably, 23 seafarers returned to India in the past 24 hours via airports and other regional transit points.