Big relief from LPG crisis: Gas filled ships will come to India despite closure of Strait of Hormuz, Center gives approval to tricolor ships

News India Live, Digital Desk: Amidst the increasing tension and war-like situations in the Middle East, a relief news has come for India. Despite the situation of almost closure of the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, India has played a masterstroke to ensure its LPG supply. The Central Government has given special permission to two more huge gas tankers flying the Indian tricolor to pass through this sensitive area and bring gas to India.

Strait of Hormuz: Lifeline of the world’s energy supply

The Strait of Hormuz is the world’s narrowest sea route through which approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil and gas trade passes. This waterway located between Iran and Oman is currently surrounded by clouds of war. In such a situation, it has become risky for international ships to pass through here. India sources a large part of its needs through this route, hence any kind of disruption here has a direct impact on the budget and supply of crores of kitchens in the country.

Security and priority for Indian ships

Following high level discussions between the Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of Petroleum, it has been decided to give priority to Indian flagged ships. The two new ships that have been granted permits will return to India carrying huge quantities of LPG from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The biggest advantage of using Indian ships is that the Indian Navy is keeping a close watch on the security of these ships, so that prompt action can be taken in case of any untoward incident.

There will be no shortage of gas in the domestic market

Experts say that this step of the government has reduced the possibility of rise in LPG prices in the domestic market. For the last few weeks, there was a fear that if the supply line was disrupted, LPG prices could skyrocket. But working in ‘mission mode’, India has not only approved new ships but has also given instructions to keep the strategic reserves of gas full.

Security under Navy’s ‘Operation Sankalp’

In view of the threat of piracy and war, Indian Navy’s ‘Operation Sankalp’ is already active in the Gulf region. Indian refinery companies have been assured that their cargo will be delivered safely to India. The arrival of these two new vessels will go a long way in meeting India’s immediate LPG demand and will remove concerns regarding gas availability in the upcoming festive season.