Two Indian-flagged LPG carriers, Jag Vasant and Pine Gas, have successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz. They are now heading towards Indian ports, and the Indian Navy has ramped up deployment to provide escort to these vessels. The development came amid the ongoing West Asia conflict between the US and Iran.
The vessels are carrying over 92,000 tonnes of LPG combined, which is equivalent to roughly a day’s national consumption. They are expected to reach India between 26th March and 28th March. Their safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz is significant as missile and drone activity in the region has disrupted commercial shipping.
Indian Navy steps up presence in Gulf
The Narendra Modi government has deployed Indian Navy assets, including Kolkata class destroyers, in the Gulf of Oman and Gulf of Aden to ensure the safe arrival of the Indian-flagged vessels navigating one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints. The Indian Navy warships are providing escort cover to these vessels after they exit the Strait of Hormuz, specifically in vulnerable stretches such as the Gulf of Oman.
Officials have maintained constant communication with ship captains, assuring them that naval support remains on standby amid the volatile security situation in the region.
Iran denies payment claims, restricts warship escort
Several reports suggested that Iran was demanding payments for the safe passage of the vessels. However, the Iranian Embassy in India has categorically denied such claims. It has clarified that Tehran is not seeking $2 million per vessel for transit through the Strait of Hormuz.
However, sources indicate that while Iranian authorities have allowed Indian-flagged commercial vessels to pass, they have not permitted Indian warships to escort these ships within the Strait itself. As a result, naval escort operations are being coordinated once vessels exit Iranian-controlled waters.
Coordinated strategy to secure energy flows
India has maintained an approach combining diplomatic engagement with Iran and a strong naval presence in the region to ensure uninterrupted energy supplies. The safe transit of Jag Vasant and Pine Gas shows a cautious normalisation of shipping activity through Hormuz, even as tensions persist in West Asia.
Notably, LPG carrier Shivalik reached Mundra on Monday, while another LPG tanker, Nanda Devi, reached Kandla port in Gujarat early on Tuesday morning last week.
Several Indian vessels are still stranded in the Persian Gulf. Authorities are closely monitoring developments. The pace of further transit will be crucial in determining how effectively India can stabilise its LPG supply chain during the ongoing conflict.
