An Indian-flagged LPG tanker, Pine Gas, carrying 45,000 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas, has safely exited the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz after being stranded for nearly three weeks due to escalating conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
The vessel had loaded cargo at Ruwais Port on February 27, just a day before hostilities intensified. Initially expected to reach India within a week, the tanker’s journey was significantly delayed as Iran imposed selective transit restrictions in the region.
Crew Witnessed Missile Activity
According to Chief Officer Sohan Lal, the 27-member Indian crew witnessed daily missile and drone activity while awaiting clearance. Visual evidence reportedly showed multiple projectiles crossing the night sky above the vessel during the standoff.
Indian authorities had advised the vessel to remain on standby around March 11. However, clearance was only granted on March 23 under highly controlled conditions.
Unconventional Route via Larak Island
Instead of the regular shipping lanes, the tanker was directed by Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to navigate a narrow and less frequently used channel north of Larak Island. The alternate route was recommended due to reported mining risks in the main transit corridor.
The vessel’s operator, Seven Islands Shipping, proceeded only after obtaining unanimous consent from all crew members.
Indian Navy Escort Ensures Safe Passage
The Indian Navy provided guidance during the critical transit phase. Following the crossing, four Indian warships escorted Pine Gas for nearly 20 hours from the Gulf of Oman to the Arabian Sea, ensuring safe passage.
Officials confirmed that no transit fees were charged and the Iranian forces did not board the vessel at any point.
Cargo Diverted Amid LPG Supply Concerns
Originally bound for Mangalore, the cargo has been redirected to India’s eastern ports — Visakhapatnam and Haldia — to manage supply distribution.
India remains heavily dependent on seaborne LPG imports, with hundreds of millions of households relying on the fuel for cooking, raising concerns over potential supply disruptions.
Indian Ships Still Await Exit
While six Indian vessels have successfully transited the Strait, around 18 Indian-flagged ships — carrying approximately 485 Indian seafarers — remain in the Persian Gulf amid continued uncertainty.
Iran has stated that it is allowing passage for “friendly nations” including India, China, Russia, Iraq, and Pakistan, but movement remains tightly controlled.
