Two LPG Carriers Reach India After Safe Hormuz Passage

Amid concerns over disruptions in vital sea routes, India's government announced a positive development: two LPG ships bound for the country have safely transited the Strait of Hormuz. Expected to arrive soon, they carry tens of thousands of tons of liquefied petroleum gas crucial for domestic needs. Details emerged from Thursday's official briefing. The SYMI, under Marshall Islands flag, is hauling 19,965 MT of LPG with a 21-member international crew. It crossed the strait on May 13, heading straight for Kandla, due May 16. The second ship, NV Sunshine flying Vietnam's colors, bears 46,427 MT and 24 foreign crew. Clearing Hormuz on May 14, it's bound for New Mangalore by May 18. The ministry's statement highlighted these safe passages as a testament to vigilant monitoring. In related news, tragedy struck the Indian dhow MSV Haji Ali en route from Somalia to UAE's Sharjah. Fire broke out in Omani waters on May 13 morning, leading to the vessel's sinking. All 14 crew were swiftly rescued by Omani coast guards and are now at Duqm Port, safe and sound, wrapping up procedures. Coordination efforts are robust, with ongoing communication between India, Oman, Indian diplomatic missions, and sea agencies. The past 72 hours saw no further incidents bar the Haji Ali case for Indian or Indian-staffed vessels. Regional Indian mariners remain secure. DG Shipping's control room, operational non-stop, has fielded thousands of queries: 9,266 calls and 20,592+ emails total, with 377 calls and 834 emails in the last three days. Evacuations continue apace, with 3,158+ Indian seafarers brought home, 62 in recent days. India's ports hum with normalcy—no backups or hiccups reported. This scenario reflects strategic preparedness, balancing risks in tense waters while prioritizing crew safety and supply chain integrity.