Amidst the peak of the US-Israel-Iran conflict, India has successfully secured a critical energy lifeline. On Sunday, March 15, 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Ministry of Shipping confirmed that two massive LPG tankers safely navigated the volatile Strait of Hormuz and are currently en route to the Gujarat coast.

This development comes as a major relief to domestic energy security, as the Strait remains a high-risk zone under the threat of Iranian "suicide boat" attacks and US-led naval counter-maneuvers.

The "LPG Lifeline" Details

• The Vessels: The Indian-flagged ships, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, successfully transited the Strait late Saturday night.
• The Cargo: Together, they are carrying 92,700 metric tonnes of LPG-a quantity sufficient to fill approximately 6.8 million domestic gas cylinders.
• Arrival Schedule: The ships are expected to dock at Mundra Port on March 16 and Kandla Port on March 17.
• Supply Status: While India consumes about 80,000 metric tonnes of LPG daily, the government has boosted domestic refinery production by 30% since March 5 to prevent shortages.

Safety of Indian Nationals & Seafarers

The MEA provided a somber but detailed update on Indian citizens affected by the regional violence:

• Casualties: Five Indians have lost their lives in the conflict so far, including two in a recent Iranian attack on Sohar, Oman. Ten others were injured in that incident but are reported to be stable.
• The "Safesea Vishnu" Incident: 15 Indian crew members were safely evacuated from this US-owned tanker after it was hit by an Iranian "suicide boat" off Iraq on March 12. They are currently sheltered in Basra.
• Seafarers in the Gulf:22 Indian-flagged vessels remain in the Persian Gulf with 611 seafarers on board; authorities confirm all are currently safe.