Three Indian-flagged crude oil tankers carrying more than 8.6 lakh metric tonnes (MT) of crude oil have successfully navigated the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and are now sailing towards Indian ports, easing concerns over the security of one of the country’s most critical energy supply routes.
The vessels- Desh Vaibhav, Desh Vibhor and Sanmar Herald, are transporting crude cargo bound for India with a total of 94 Indian crew members onboard. Their successful passage through the narrow maritime corridor comes at a time when global shipping and energy markets have been closely monitoring developments in the Gulf region.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s busiest oil transit chokepoints, handling a major share of global crude shipments. Any disruption in the waterway can have immediate implications for international energy markets and importing nations such as India.
According to Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal, all three Indian-flagged vessels completed their transit through the strait on Saturday and are proceeding towards their designated destinations in India.
Of the three ships, Desh Vaibhav is expected to reach Vadinar Port on June 24, while Desh Vibhor is scheduled to arrive at Sikka Port on the same day. Sanmar Herald is expected to dock at Paradip Port on July 1.
The development comes amid renewed attention on shipping movements through the Strait of Hormuz following diplomatic efforts involving the United States and Iran. The waterway had witnessed heightened uncertainty in recent months due to regional tensions, prompting concerns over global oil flows and maritime security.
Sonowal said the government is maintaining close coordination with relevant agencies to safeguard India’s maritime interests, energy supply chains and the welfare of Indian seafarers operating in the region.
The successful transit of the three Indian-flagged tankers is being viewed as a positive sign for the uninterrupted movement of crude oil to India, which relies heavily on imports to meet its energy requirements.
With PTI inputs
