Six Indian-flagged LPG tanker ships are prepared for transit through the volatile Strait of Hormuz, with no tolls levied by Iran, a senior government official confirmed on Tuesday.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, stated that the vessels are ready to sail and added that the passage remains free under international maritime norms, and Iran is not charging any ‘toll’.
VIDEO | Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, says, “Six loaded LPG carriers are ready to sail, and no toll has been levied by Iran for vessels crossing the Strait of Hormuz.” pic.twitter.com/ROMhUeYkju
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 24, 2026
This assurance comes as two more LPG carriers, Jag Vasant and Pine Gas successfully navigated the strait on Monday, carrying approximately 92,000 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The vessels were escorted through the troubled waters by Indian Navy ships.
The tankers, chartered by public sector firms BPCL and HPCL, are expected to reach Indian ports between March 26 and 28. Earlier, the carriers Shivalik and Nanda Devi also crossed safely, delivering another 92,700 tonnes.
The global energy shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has faced severe disruptions due to escalating West Asia conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the US.
While briefing the media on the recent developments in #WestAsia, Shri Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, stated that all Indian vessels and crew currently in the Persian Gulf are being closely monitored. All seafarers in Persian Gulf… pic.twitter.com/r0qKGz5LlX
— Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (@shipmin_india) March 24, 2026
India, which imports around 60% of its LPG needs with nearly 90% transiting the strait, has been hit hard. About 3 lakh tonnes of LPG remain stranded, alongside other cargoes, as per reports. Over 540 Indian sailors in 20 ships are stuck in the Strait as of now. The government of India is closely monitoring their safety, the Special Secretary mentioned. Some sailors in the Gulf region are also being repatriated home with the coordination with Gulf nations.
Diplomatic efforts, including high-level talks by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, have helped secure the passage of some Indian ships. Indian Navy warships are deployed in the region for protection.
