“Big Relief for India!” LPG Tankers Cross Hormuz Despite War Tensions, But Crisis Not Over

In a major relief for India’s energy security, two Indian-flagged LPG carriers — Green Sanvi and Green Asha — have successfully crossed the highly sensitive Strait of Hormuz, even as tensions continue to disrupt global shipping routes.

Officials confirmed that Green Sanvi, carrying a massive 46,650 tonnes of LPG, is set to reach India on April 7, while Green Asha, loaded with 15,500 tonnes, is expected to arrive on April 9. Their safe passage comes as a crucial boost at a time when supply concerns have been mounting.

With these crossings, a total of eight Indian LPG tankers have now navigated the strait safely, offering some stability to the country’s energy inflow. Earlier vessels like BW TYR, BW ELM, Pine Gas, Jag Vasant, MT Shivalik, and MT Nanda Devi had already delivered significant cargo to Indian ports.

However, the situation is far from normal. Around 16 Indian-flagged ships are still stranded in the Persian Gulf, including LNG carriers, crude oil tankers, and container vessels. What makes the situation more concerning is that nearly 433 Indian crew members remain onboard, waiting anxiously for a safe route back.

The crisis stems from escalating tensions involving the US-Israel alliance and Iran, which have turned the Strait of Hormuz — one of the world’s most critical oil and gas transit routes — into a high-risk zone. Shipping movements have slowed drastically, affecting global energy supplies.

Despite the volatile situation, Iran has reportedly indicated that non-hostile vessels may be allowed safe passage after coordination, which has enabled limited movement of ships, including Indian tankers.

For India, the stakes are extremely high. The country depends on imports for nearly 60% of its LPG needs, with almost 90% sourced from West Asia. The arrival of these tankers is expected to ease the ongoing LPG shortage, which has been impacting households and commercial sectors.

Government sources have stated that there is currently no confirmation of any transit fees being imposed by Iran, and authorities are maintaining constant monitoring to ensure the safety of Indian vessels and uninterrupted energy supply.

Earlier successful crossings by ships like Jag Laadki and Jag Prakash had already signaled that controlled transit remains possible, but the overall risk continues to loom large.