Amidst the ongoing West Asia conflict, the government confirmed today that two Indian-flagged tankers carrying crucial supplies of Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) have safely navigated the Strait of Hormuz. The vessels, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, are transporting approximately 92,700 metric tons of fuel and are expected to dock at Mundra and Kandla ports on March 16 and 17, respectively.
Rajesh Kumar, Special Secretary for the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, noted during a briefing that while these two ships have made it through, 22 Indian-flagged vessels remain in the Persian Gulf. However, he offered reassurance regarding the 611 seafarers still in the region, stating that all are safe and no "untoward incidents" have been reported in the last 24 hours.
Back home, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has stepped in to manage the domestic fallout of the energy crisis. Joint Secretary Sujata Sharma announced that after extensive talks, a specific quota of LPG has now been allocated for commercial cylinders. These stocks have been handed over to state governments to prioritise essential consumers, with distribution already underway in 29 states and union territories. Despite the move, officials are pushing for a shift to online bookings, which currently lag at 84 per cent.
Crucially, the government has issued a firm appeal to the public to avoid "panic booking" of gas or the hoarding of petrol and diesel. The Ministry dismissed rumours of a fuel shortage, insisting that supplies remain stable and sufficient at retail outlets nationwide. They also warned against the dangerous practice of storing fuel in loose containers at home, citing severe safety risks. While the safe passage of the Shivalik and Nanda Devi marks a small victory for India’s energy security, the message from New Delhi is clear: the situation is being managed, provided the public remains calm.
Also read: Iran Envoy assures safe Hormuz passage for Indian ships
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