Big relief! Indian vessel Nanda Devi carrying 47,000 tonnes LPG reaches Gujarat, supply hopes rise
India gets relief as LPG tanker Nanda Devi and other fuel ships reach Gujarat safely, easing supply concerns amid rising tensions in West Asia and Strait of Hormuz disruptions.
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Amid concerns over fuel supply due to ongoing tensions in West Asia, India has received a major relief as two fuel-laden Indian ships have safely reached the country’s western coast.
According to sources, the LPG tanker Nanda Devi has arrived at Kandla Port in Gujarat carrying around 46,000–47,000 tonnes of LPG. Meanwhile, another oil carrier, Jag Ladki, is expected to reach Mundra Port with approximately 81,000 tonnes of crude oil.
Both vessels reportedly departed from Qatar and reached India via the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier, another ship named Shivalik had also reached Mundra Port carrying around 45,000–46,000 tonnes of LPG. The safe arrival of these vessels is expected to ease concerns regarding fuel supply disruptions.
The LPG tanker Nanda Devi had left Ras Laffan Port in Qatar on March 1 and reached India after a sea journey of nearly two weeks. Officials said the vessel has successfully reached the Vadinar anchorage.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, had earlier stated that after crossing the Strait of Hormuz, the vessels had safely entered open waters. He mentioned that Shivalik and Nanda Devi together were transporting around 92,700 metric tonnes of LPG to India. These ships are owned by the Shipping Corporation of India.
Government data indicates that around 22 Indian vessels with 611 crew members were present west of the Strait of Hormuz in the Persian Gulf region, and all ships and crew are reported to be safe.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime routes, through which nearly 20 percent of global oil and gas supply passes. In view of rising tensions in the region, the Indian government and concerned agencies are closely monitoring maritime movement.
The ministry stated that major ports across the country are keeping strict watch on ship movement and cargo handling, while also extending support to shipping companies, including concessions on anchorage, port charges and storage fees.