Indian liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carriers continue to operate in the Arabian Gulf under heightened caution, as tensions linked to the ongoing US-Israel-Iran conflict affect shipping routes through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Indian LPG carrier Jag Vikram is currently in the Arabian Gulf awaiting instructions from the Indian Navy before proceeding through the strategic waterway. Another vessel, Green Asha, carrying 15,400 tonnes of LPG, successfully crossed the strait on Sunday, becoming the eighth Indian LPG carrier to do so since the conflict began on February 28.
Earlier, the Green Sanvi, transporting 46,650 tonnes of LPG with 25 crew members onboard, also transited the strait and is expected to arrive at Dahej in Gujarat on Tuesday. The movement of these vessels highlights India’s efforts to maintain energy supply lines despite disruptions in one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors.
India’s Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas said that 17 Indian-flagged vessels, carrying a total of 460 seafarers, are currently operating in the Arabian Gulf region. The ministry assured that all crew members are safe and that no incidents involving Indian vessels have been reported so far.
Iran has stated that it has introduced precautionary measures to reduce risks for ships passing through the strait, which typically handles a significant share of global oil and gas shipments. The situation remains closely monitored by regional and international authorities.
Despite concerns over supply disruptions, the Indian government has sought to reassure consumers that there is no shortage of LPG in the country. Officials said nearly 100,000 five-kilogram free trade LPG (FTL) cylinders are being sold daily at market rates, with no documentation required for purchase.
Authorities also confirmed that refineries are operating at high capacity and that crude oil inventories remain sufficient. Petrol pumps across the country are fully stocked, and the government has urged the public to avoid panic buying.
To address concerns over hoarding and black marketing, enforcement actions have intensified. More than 50,000 LPG cylinders have been seized over the past month, and nearly 1,500 dealers have received notices.
The government added that natural gas supplies to fertiliser plants are running at about 90 percent of average consumption. Efforts are also underway to expand the use of piped natural gas (PNG), particularly in urban areas, to ease pressure on LPG demand.
Officials said domestic PNG connections are being prioritised, with full supply maintained for consumers. Compressed natural gas (CNG) used in transportation is also being supplied without disruption.
The developments underline the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions to global energy supply chains, while highlighting India’s attempts to ensure stability in domestic fuel availability.
