Two Indian LPG Tankers Complete Safe Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

Two India‑flagged liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tankers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz and are now en route to Indian ports, according to multiple reports from Indian and international news agencies on Saturday. Their transit marks a rare safe passage through one of the world’s most strategically sensitive maritime choke points amid the ongoing regional conflict.

The vessels, both operated by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), navigated the narrow strait — a critical corridor for roughly a fifth of global oil and gas shipments — without incident despite heightened tensions stemming from the US–Israel–Iran war and associated disruptions in Gulf shipping. The refinery‑bound tankers are carrying vital LPG supplies to India, which relies heavily on Middle Eastern energy imports.

Their safe transit followed high‑level diplomatic engagement between Indian and Iranian officials, during which India sought assurances for the movement of energy shipments through the volatile region. Officials say the cooperation ensured that the tankers could proceed with enhanced safety measures, including naval escort through particularly risky zones.

Also Read: Missiles, Drones Fly Over LPG-Laden Indian Tanker Near Hormuz Strait

The passage of Shivalik and Nanda Devi provides a degree of relief for India’s energy security, which has been under pressure since the strait’s disruption caused a near‑halt in commercial traffic and spiked global logistics risks. The conflict around Hormuz had previously led to the effective closure of the route for many vessels, forcing delayed deliveries and reliance on alternate routes where possible.

In recent days, Iran’s government also conveyed assurances — described by its ambassador to India as rooted in longstanding bilateral cooperation — that Indian ships would be permitted to transit critical waterways despite broader hostilities. The move was framed by diplomats as a reflection of shared interests and respectful bilateral relations, even as maritime tensions persist.

While only a limited number of Indian‑flagged vessels have been allowed passage so far, the safe crossing of these two LPG carriers is being closely watched by energy markets and policymakers as a potential early indication of negotiated maritime access amid ongoing conflict. Authorities in New Delhi continue to monitor conditions along international shipping lanes as part of broader efforts to safeguard energy imports and protect Indian seafarers in the region.

Also Read: Iran’s UN Envoy Says Strait Of Hormuz Will Remain Open