Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: The Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Jag Laadki arrived at Mundra port in Gujarat on Wednesday, becoming the third such vessel to reach India in as many days amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.Click here for live updates The tanker docked carrying approximately 80,886 metric tonnes of crude oil, sourced from the UAE and loaded at the Emirate’s Fujairah Port. The arrival comes against the backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, where Iran has effectively blocked the Strait of Hormuz following the US and Israel’s joint strikes on February 28 that triggered the conflict. The strait is a critical waterway, handling nearly 20% of the world’s crude oil supply, making it vital for countries such as India.Also Read | 30 million barrels in a week! India grabs more Russian crude amid US-Iran war; tankers headed to China make U-turnEarlier, MT Shivalik and MT Nanda Devi safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz before reaching India on Monday and Tuesday, respectively. Together, the two vessels carried about 92,712 metric tonnes of LPG and transited the strait on March 13.Tehran allowed Indian-flagged vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz after talks between the two countries’ foreign ministers, as well as discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian.Also Read | LPG crisis: Centre pushes states to fast-track switch to PNG amid Hormuz supply disruptionMeanwhile, according to an official release, the Directorate General of Shipping is closely monitoring the situation in coordination with shipowners, Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL) agencies, and Indian missions in the Persian Gulf region. The government is working with ports, shipping lines, and logistics stakeholders to minimise disruptions and ensure smooth maritime operations. Ports have been advised to provide relief measures where required, including concessions on anchorage, berth hire, and storage charges.
