Kollam Port provides haven to Sharjah-bound LPG tanker amid strait of Hormuz crisis, fuel shortage

Kollam (Kerala): Amid escalating tensions and the fear of war in the Middle East, a fuel tanker en route from China to Sharjah has docked at Kollam Port seeking refuge.

The vessel, GM 2, departed from Ningde Port in China on February 14 and was scheduled to reach Sharjah by passing through the Strait of Hormuz on March 2. However, due to the prevailing conflict, the ship remained stationed in the Indian Ocean for several days. With its onboard reserves of fuel and drinking water nearly exhausted, the vessel steered towards Kollam Port.

After obtaining the necessary clearances, the ship docked at the port on Friday morning. The crew consists of one Chinese national and ten Indonesians, including the captain. This is a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) carrier. Following maintenance work at a dry dock in Ningde Port, the ship had set sail with empty tanks and had no prior plans to dock at intermediate ports.

However, after being forced to remain in the Indian Ocean for days without being able to reach its destination, the depletion of essential supplies compelled the crew to seek shelter at the nearest port. Although an attempt was made to dock at Kochi, it was unsuccessful as the vessel lacked insurance approved by the Director General of Shipping. By the time it reached Kollam, the necessary insurance was secured, along with permission to remain for one week. The intervention of officials also proved helpful. The request to dock at Kollam was facilitated through Sathyam Shipping and Logistics Private Limited.

Arrangements have been made to supply the required fuel to the ship by Saturday. The vessel is expected to resume its journey within two days after stocking up on drinking water and provisions. Registered in Mongolia, the ship measures 81 metres in length. Notably, 'Zaki Vision', a Saudi vessel that docked at Kollam earlier this month due to the Middle East crisis, remains stationed at the port.