New Delhi: An Indian crude tanker successfully departed from Fujairah in the UAE after loading oil, despite recent attacks on the terminal. The government is actively monitoring the situation in West Asia to ensure fuel supply and maritime safety.
The vessel, named Jag Laadki, left Fujairah with around 80,800 tonnes of Murban crude oil and is headed to India. All crew members are safe. This is the fourth Indian-flagged ship to emerge from this conflict zone without harm.
Shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial passage for energy supplies, has been heavily affected by the ongoing conflict. India imports a significant amount of its energy from this region. Prior to the escalation, over half of India’s crude oil, along with a substantial portion of its gas and LPG, came from West Asian countries, mainly Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
On March 14, while loading at the Fujairah Single Point Mooring, Jag Laadki was near an attack on the terminal. Fortunately, it sailed safely out just hours later. It’s noteworthy that two other Indian LPG carriers, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, also crossed the Strait of Hormuz recently, bringing attention to the risks faced by ships in the area.
As of now, 22 Indian vessels with 611 crew members are still in the Persian Gulf region. The Indian government is in constant contact with shipping companies and agencies to ensure the safety of these ships and their crews. The Directorate General of Shipping has handled thousands of inquiries from affected seafarers and families, reflecting the high level of trepidation surrounding the situation.
Historically, the Strait of Hormuz has been a vital route for oil, illustrating how geopolitical tensions impact global energy supplies. Recent statistics show that around 88% of India’s crude oil, 50% of its natural gas, and up to 90% of its LPG come from this area. These figures emphasize the critical nature of safety in maritime operations amid escalating conflicts.
In the wake of the conflict, India has been seeking alternative sources for its energy needs, shifting some imports to countries like Russia. However, these changes have come with their own challenges, as gas supply for industries has been limited and commercial availability of LPG has decreased.
To ensure the well-being of Indian seafarers, the Ministry of Shipping continues to work alongside the Ministry of External Affairs and shipping companies, actively coordinating responses to maintain trade flow and security at sea.
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UAE FUJAIRAH, ATTACK ON OIL TERMINAL, INDIAN CRUDE TANKER, INDIAN CRUDE TANKER SAILS OUT OF UAE FUJAIRAH SAFELY
