The LPG carrier MT Sarv Shakti, carrying 46,313 tonnes of cooking gas, has safely passed through the Strait of Hormuz and is expected to reach Visakhapatnam on May 13, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said on Sunday, reported IANS.
Key milestone amid disruption in global shipping routes
The vessel’s safe passage is being seen as a significant development, as tanker traffic through the Strait of Hormuz had sharply declined following recent geopolitical tensions and restrictions targeting vessels linked to Iran. The route is one of the world’s most critical energy corridors, and disruptions have raised concerns about global fuel supply chains, reported IANS.
Officials said the journey of the tanker marks one of the first known successful passages by an India-linked vessel since the restrictions came into effect.
Vessel details and route tracking
The Marshall Islands-flagged ship has 20 crew members onboard, including 18 Indian nationals. Ship-tracking data showed that the tanker moved into the Gulf of Oman after navigating close to Iran’s Larak and Qeshm islands before continuing its journey towards India, reported IANS.
The vessel, classified as a very large gas carrier, has previously operated on routes between the Persian Gulf and Indian ports. It was broadcasting its destination and crew details, a precautionary safety measure widely adopted by ships operating in the region during the ongoing conflict.
Measures in place to protect Indian vessels and crew
The ministry said that all Indian seafarers in the Middle East region are currently safe, with no incidents reported involving Indian-flagged vessels in the past 24 hours. Authorities have implemented measures to safeguard ships and crew operating in sensitive maritime zones, reported IANS.
The Directorate General of Shipping has been actively monitoring the situation through its control room, which has handled thousands of calls and emails since its activation to assist seafarers and stakeholders.
Repatriation and support for Indian seafarers
More than 2,900 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated from the Gulf region so far, including several in the past 24 hours. The government has prioritised the welfare of Indian nationals working at sea, with missions in the region providing assistance, including coordination with local authorities and support for return travel, reported IANS.
Government monitoring situation closely
The Ministry of External Affairs is closely monitoring developments in West Asia and remains in regular contact with state governments and Union Territories to ensure coordinated response efforts, reported IANS.
Indian embassies and consulates are operating round-the-clock helplines and issuing updated advisories related to travel, safety protocols and local regulations. Officials said port operations across India remain normal, with no congestion reported.
The safe transit of the tanker is expected to provide reassurance regarding India’s energy supply chain resilience, even as geopolitical uncertainties continue to affect global maritime routes.
(With inputs IANS)