The development is being seen as significant, as it marks the first Indian-flagged vessel to navigate the route following the recently announced 14-day ceasefire between the United States and Iran
Representational Image. Pic/AFP
The India-flagged LPG vessel Jag Vikram, carrying 20,400 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas, is expected to arrive at Kandla port in Gujarat on April 14, according to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, reported ANI.
The announcement was made during an inter-ministerial briefing, where officials highlighted the vessel’s safe transit through the strategically crucial Strait of Hormuz amid easing geopolitical tensions in the region.
First Indian Vessel After Ceasefire Breakthrough
Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal confirmed that Jag Vikram successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz on April 11. The development is being seen as significant, as it marks the first Indian-flagged vessel to navigate the route following the recently announced 14-day ceasefire between the United States and Iran, reported ANI.
The ceasefire has helped de-escalate tensions in the Gulf region, allowing the gradual restoration of vital maritime trade routes that are critical for global energy supplies.
Vessel Carries 20,400 MT LPG With 24 Crew
The vessel is transporting 20,400 metric tonnes of LPG and has 24 seafarers onboard. Officials reiterated that the journey has remained incident-free, underlining the safety of Indian maritime operations despite earlier concerns over regional instability, reported ANI.
The safe passage of Jag Vikram is particularly important for India, which relies heavily on energy imports routed through the Gulf.
No Incidents Reported in Last 24 Hours
Providing a status update, Mukesh Mangal stated that no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels have been reported in the past 24 hours. Authorities continue to maintain close surveillance over maritime activities in the region to ensure the safety of ships and crew, reported ANI.
Over 2,100 Indian Seafarers Repatriated
The government has intensified efforts to support Indian seafarers in the Gulf region. So far, more than 2,177 seafarers have been safely repatriated, including 93 in the last 24 hours alone, reported ANI.
These operations are being carried out in coordination with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions abroad, and maritime stakeholders to ensure welfare and timely assistance.
Port Operations Normal, No Congestion Reported
The ministry also confirmed that port operations across India are functioning smoothly, with no congestion reported at any major port. This reflects stable logistics and uninterrupted cargo movement despite global uncertainties, reported ANI.
Strategic Importance of Gulf Route for India
The successful transit of Jag Vikram underscores the importance of the Gulf region for India’s energy security. Nearly 90 per cent of the country’s LPG imports are sourced from Gulf nations, making safe maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz vital.
With tensions showing signs of easing and maritime routes reopening, the arrival of Jag Vikram at Kandla Port is expected to further strengthen confidence in the resilience of India’s energy supply chain.
(With inputs from ANI)
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