LPG shortage eases: Two more tankers en route to India

New Delhi/Mumbai: In a major relief for millions of households, two Indian-flagged LPG carriers- BW TYR and BW ELM, have successfully navigated the conflict-hit Strait of Hormuz and are expected to dock at Indian ports within days, bolstering the nation’s strained cooking gas reserves.

Carrying a combined cargo of approximately 94,000 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), the vessels are part of India’s urgent efforts to secure energy supplies amid rising geopolitical tensions in West Asia. BW TYR is set to arrive in Mumbai by March 31, while BW ELM is headed to New Mangalore Port, with an expected arrival on April 1.

Strait of Hormuz crisis disrupts global energy flow

The developments come as shipping activity through the critical oil transit route has been severely disrupted following escalating hostilities involving the US, Israel and Iran. The narrow corridor, a vital artery for global oil and gas trade, has witnessed significant slowdowns, raising concerns over supply chains worldwide.

However, Iran recently signalled limited reopening, allowing “non-hostile vessels” to pass under coordinated conditions, offering a narrow window for countries like India to maintain imports.

India races to prevent LPG shortage

India, which depends on imports for nearly 60% of its LPG consumption, has been navigating one of its most challenging supply crises in recent years. With annual consumption exceeding 33 million tonnes and nearly 90% of imports sourced from West Asia, disruptions in the region pose a direct threat to domestic energy stability.

To counter this, India has diversified sourcing, increasing LPG imports from countries such as the United States and Argentina, an emergency pivot amid ongoing uncertainty.

Recent arrivals offer breathing space

The latest shipments follow a series of successful transits:

Pine Gas and Jag Vasant delivered over 92,000 tonnes of LPG between March 26–28

MT Shivalik and MT Nanda Devi earlier reached Mundra Port and Kandla Port in mid-March

These deliveries have played a crucial role in preventing a deeper supply crunch.

Despite progress, multiple Indian-flagged ships remain in the western Persian Gulf region. LPG carriers such as Jag Vikram, Green Asha, and Green Sanvi are still awaiting safe passage, while one empty vessel is currently being loaded.

Initially, 28 Indian vessels were caught in the region when tensions escalated. So far, eight have successfully exited high-risk waters.

Government steps up maritime response

India’s Directorate General of Shipping has activated a 24/7 emergency control room, handling thousands of distress communications and facilitating the safe return of over 940 Indian seafarers.

Authorities confirmed that port operations across the country remain smooth, with no congestion reported, ensuring quick turnaround for incoming energy shipments.