LPG vessel Jag Vasant docks in Gujarat amid Strait of Hormuz closure

New Delhi: Amid the ongoing supply disruptions in West Asia and the closure of the energy corridor Strait of Hormuz, the liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) tanker Jag Vasant docked at Vadinar port in Gujarat on Friday, the ship is carrying 42,000 metric tons of LPG.

The shipment of cooking gas delayed for weeks due to tensions affecting shipping movement through the Strait of Hormuz.

Why is the tanker important?

Amid the ongoing war between US-Israel and Iran, the LPG vessel holds a lot of importance as the countries are currently battling with gas shortage.

The shortage has increased since the closure of Strait of Hormuz, which is responsible for transition of 25 per cent of the world's seaborne oil trade.

The LPG cargo ship had started heading for India on Monday. The vessel, which is carrying 42,000 metric tons of LPG, took an unusual route to cross the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. Its arrival comes at a time when the Centre has been urging people not to panic over LPG availability.

Pine Gas, another LPG tanker, carrying around 45,000 metric tonnes of LPG, is expected to arrive soon at the New Mangalore Port. Meanwhile, the tanker MT Apollo Ocean berthed at New Mangalore Port on Thursday carrying 16,000 metric tonnes of LPG.

Is it still risky to pass through Hormuz?

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most sensitive sea lanes due to the ongoing conflict between Iran, the US and Israel. This is the same path through which a large part of the global oil and gas supply passes. The movement of many ships has been affected due to the recent attacks and military activities, although India has shown signs of relief in some cases.

Does India have a special exemption?

According to sources, considering India's energy needs, Iran has allowed some Indian ships to pass through this route. Even before this, Indian tankers were made to cross safely. However, no permanent agreement has been officially confirmed and the situation is still not considered completely clear.

How important is this consignment for India?

India imports a large part of its LPG needs and most of that supply comes from the Middle East. In such a situation, the tanker that arrived with 42 thousand tons of gas is being seen as a big relief. Officials say such supplies help prevent possible shortages in the domestic market.