Two Indian-Flagged LPG Tankers Scheduled To Cross Strait Of Hormuz

Two more Indian-flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers, Pine Gas and Jag Vasant, are in transit through the Strait of Hormuz on March 23, 2026, as they make their way from the Persian Gulf toward Indian ports amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict now in its fourth week. Ship-tracking data from sources like MarineTraffic and Bloomberg indicate the very large gas carriers (VLGCs) have begun navigating the critical chokepoint, following a route hugging Iran's coastline near Qeshm and Larak islands—a precautionary path used by previously approved vessels to signal their identity and secure passage.

The movement comes as a significant development for India's energy security, particularly for cooking gas supplies, which have faced acute shortages due to the partial blockade of the strait. Earlier in March, tankers such as Shivalik and Nanda Devi successfully crossed with diplomatic facilitation, including coordination with Iranian authorities, and reached Gujarat ports like Mundra and Kandla. The Pine Gas and Jag Vasant, currently broadcasting signals highlighting their Indian ownership rather than specific destinations, are expected to head to domestic terminals, potentially easing pressure on LPG availability for households and industries.

This transit follows intense diplomatic efforts by the Indian government, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi's outreach to regional leaders and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's engagements, to advocate for safe passage of vessels. Reports suggest some crossings have involved guidance from the Iranian Navy or Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on pre-approved routes, reflecting selective permissions granted to Indian, Chinese, and Russian ships while restricting others linked to Western interests. No Indian Navy escorts have been involved in these operations, emphasizing reliance on diplomacy over military protection.

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The successful or impending passage of these tankers provides relief amid broader disruptions, where crude oil movements have largely halted and many vessels remain anchored or stranded in the Gulf. India has urged safe navigation for its approximately 22 ships and hundreds of seafarers in the region, while continuing to diversify energy sourcing from non-Gulf suppliers like Russia and the US to mitigate long-term risks. Authorities have assured that domestic LPG stocks are being managed through strategic reserves and alternative logistics, with no immediate panic shortages reported despite elevated global prices.

As the conflict persists—with US President Donald Trump's ultimatum nearing its end and Iran issuing counter-threats—the transit underscores India's balanced approach to safeguarding its energy lifeline through dialogue, monitoring, and contingency planning. Ship movements will be closely watched in the coming days for any escalations that could affect further flows, while the government maintains focus on protecting citizens and economic stability in the volatile West Asia landscape.

Also Read: PM Modi to Review Energy Situation Amid Escalating West Asia Conflict