Indian LPG Ships Cross Strait of Hormuz, Offering Relief Amid Supply Concerns

New Delhi, March 2026 : Two Indian-flagged vessels carrying cooking gas are currently navigating the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz, raising hopes of easing LPG supply concerns in India amid heightened regional tensions.

According to ship-tracking data, the vessels — Jag Vasant and Pine Gas — are transiting the sensitive waterway after receiving clearance for safe passage. Both ships are transporting liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), a key cooking fuel widely used across Indian households.

The vessels began their journey early Monday from the UAE coast, sailing close to Iran’s shoreline near Qeshm and Larak islands. Instead of displaying a specific destination, both ships indicated Indian ownership in their tracking systems — a precautionary measure adopted by several vessels passing through the high-risk zone.

Reports suggest that if the journey continues without disruption, the ships are expected to reach the Gulf of Oman by Monday evening. A full transit through the Strait of Hormuz typically takes around 14 hours.

The development comes amid rising tensions in the region following military actions involving the United States and Israel in late February, which have significantly impacted maritime movement through the strait. Since then, Iran has imposed restrictions on vessel movement, allowing only selected ships — including those linked to countries like India — to pass after diplomatic engagement.

Shipping patterns indicate that Iran is currently regulating maritime traffic by directing vessels to remain close to its coastline. Meanwhile, the usual route near Oman has been considered more risky, with at least one reported attack on a vessel earlier this month.

Both Jag Vasant and Pine Gas had entered the Persian Gulf in late February, just before tensions escalated. Jag Vasant loaded LPG cargo from Kuwait, while Pine Gas sourced its shipment from Ruwais in the UAE. Due to the volatile situation, both ships had remained stranded in the region before being granted permission to proceed.

Earlier this month, two other Indian-flagged LPG carriers had also successfully completed similar transits through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting cautious but ongoing maritime movement despite geopolitical challenges.