Safe Passage Through Chaos: Indian Vessel Exits Hormuz Ahead of Escalating Tensions

New Delhi: The ship 'Al Hamra' carrying LNG has already crossed this important sea route before the tension increased and is now moving towards Ennore LNG terminal in Tamil Nadu. With this the number of energy ships coming towards India has increased to four. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that three Indian oil tankers have also crossed Hormuz, carrying more than 8.6 lakh tonnes of crude oil and 94 Indian crew. At present, there does not appear to be any immediate crisis on India's energy supply.

How did India get relief amid the Hormuz crisis?

Angered by the ongoing tension in Lebanon and Israeli military action, Iran once again announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. But even before this decision was implemented, the ship 'Al Hamra' sailing from Abu Dhabi crossed this route. The departure of this ship has reduced the pressure on India's immediate energy needs. ‘Al Hamra’ was also included among the 55 ships that left Hormuz.

Why is ‘Al Hamra’ ship important for India?

‘Al Hamra’ is going to Ennore LNG terminal in Tamil Nadu. The electricity, fertiliser and energy needs of big industries of South India are met from this terminal. Stopping the regular supply of LNG would have a direct impact on power generation and factories. Therefore, the safe passage of this ship is being considered a big relief for South India.

How much LNG is loaded on the ship?

According to the report, ‘Al Hamra’ has left with about 1.32 lakh cubic meters of LNG from Abu Dhabi National Oil Company ADNOC. This consignment was among 55 ships passing through Hormuz before Iran's announcement. Such a large consignment will be able to meet industrial demand for several weeks.

What is the role of Gulf countries in India's energy needs?

India imports a major part of its LNG from Gulf countries. Of the total imports, 40 to 45 percent comes from Qatar and 10 to 15 percent from UAE. Hormuz is the world's busiest energy route. Millions of barrels of oil and gas pass through here every day. Therefore, any obstruction in this path becomes a direct threat to India's energy security.

Did Indian oil tankers also turn out to be safe?

Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal informed that 3 Indian-flagged oil tankers have also crossed Hormuz. More than 8.6 lakh tonnes of crude oil are loaded in these ships. 94 Indian crew members are deployed on them. With their safe exit, the supply to India's refineries will remain intact.

What did Iran say about Hormuz?

According to Iran-backed sources, the decision to keep Hormuz closed to shipping has been taken in response to 'violations of agreements by enemies'. Iran has indicated that more stringent measures could be taken if regional tensions continue. Strictness may also increase regarding inspection and stoppage of ships passing through Hormuz.

What is the status of US-Iran talks?

Meanwhile, talks are going on in Switzerland regarding restoration of peace between America and Iran. In the initial phase, differences have emerged on many issues. Nevertheless, backchannel contacts between the two countries continue. Diplomatic sources say that efforts are being made to find a way out through talks, but no concrete result has been achieved yet.

Is there a big threat to India's energy supply?

Energy experts believe that there is no immediate crisis for India right now. Many ships have already passed Hormuz and supplies are normal. The government also has strategic oil reserves. But if the tension continues for a long time, prices may increase in the international oil and gas market. It may impact petrol, diesel and electricity rates in India.