LPG tanker Nanda Devi reaches Vadinar port today after crossing Strait of Hormuz amid supply concerns

In a key development for India’s energy security, the LPG tanker Nanda Devi has successfully arrived at Vadinar port in Gujarat on Tuesday, March 17after safely crossing the Strait of Hormuzdespite ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region.

The tanker is carrying around 45,000 metric tonnes of LPGmarking another successful transit through the high-risk maritime route.

Second and third successful crossings amid tensions

Earlier, the India-flagged tanker Shivalikowned by the Shipping Corporation of India, had docked at Mundra port after a similar journey. With Nanda Devi’s arrival, these become the second and third Indian-linked vessels to successfully cross the Hormuz route since the escalation of conflict following US-Israel strikes on Iran.

The first successful transit during this period involved a Liberian-flagged crude oil tanker from Saudi Arabia.

Diplomatic efforts ensured safe passage

The safe movement of these vessels follows intensive diplomatic engagement by India. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held multiple discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchiwhile Prime Minister Narendra Modi also spoke with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian to ensure safe maritime passage.

Hormuz disruption raised global concerns

The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly 20% of global oil and gas trade flowshas seen severe disruption due to military activity, tanker attacks, and heightened security risks. This led to a sharp spike in crude oil prices, with global benchmarks crossing $100 per barrel multiple times in recent weeks.

A recent incident involving a Thai-flagged cargo vessel bound for Kandla further highlighted the risks after it was attacked shortly after departing from the UAE.

LPG supply concerns and government response

India, the world’s second-largest LPG consumerrelies heavily on imports from the Middle East. The tensions had triggered concerns over LPG availability, especially for the 33 crore households dependent on cooking gas.

However, the government has reassured that the situation remains under control. Officials confirmed that LPG production has been ramped up by 28%and recent supply concerns were largely due to panic buying rather than actual shortages.

Authorities have urged consumers to avoid panic, emphasizing that there is no immediate supply crisis.