New Delhi: India has 1.67 million tonnes of crude oil, 320,000 tonnes of LPG, and about 200,000 tonnes of LNG stuck on 22 Indian-flagged ships in the Persian Gulf. These vessels are waiting to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, as reported by Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Shipping Ministry.
When tensions escalated in the Middle East due to recent US-Israel attacks on Iran, 28 Indian-flagged ships were caught in the strait—24 on the western side and 4 on the eastern side. Recently, two ships from each side managed to escape.
Sinha confirmed that all 611 crew members on the stranded vessels are safe. There are now three vessels on the east side after another Indian ship joined them. Among the 22 ships on the west side, there are six LPG carriers, one LNG tanker, and several others, including container and bulk carriers.
The Strait of Hormuz, a key passage for global oil transport, has been effectively blocked due to the ongoing conflict. Nearly 500 tanker vessels are trapped in the Persian Gulf, comprising a mix of crude oil and chemical tankers.
Experts suggest that Iran may be allowing certain ships to pass after thorough checks. Recently, four vessels, three of which were bulk carriers, have successfully transited the strait. This suggests Iran may be screening ships to ensure they are not linked to the US or other countries it does not permit.
India relies heavily on imports for its energy needs—about 88% of its crude oil, 50% of its natural gas, and 60% of its LPG come from outside the country. Before the conflict, many of these imports came from Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and the UAE, all of which utilize the Strait of Hormuz for shipping. Although India has begun sourcing crude from alternative regions such as Russia and Latin America, disruptions in gas and LPG supplies have affected many industrial users.
Understanding the geopolitical context is crucial. The Strait of Hormuz is not just a local issue; it’s pivotal for the global energy market. Recent tensions highlight the fragility of energy supply routes and the potential for broader economic impacts.
For ongoing updates on this situation and its implications for global oil markets, you can follow trusted news sources like Reuters or government publications.
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HORMUZ, INDIAN VESSELS, PERSIAN GULF, MIDDLE EAST CONFLICT, STRAIT OF HORMUZ, 24 VESSELS WERE ON WEST SIDE OF THE STRAIT AND FOUR ON THE EAST
