Amid concerns over crude oil and LPG supplies due to the escalating conflict in the Middle East, there has been some relief for India after an Indian-flagged oil tanker departed safely from the Fujairah Single Point Mooring in the United Arab Emirates.
The vessel, named Jag Laadki, left the port without incident despite an earlier attack on the nearby Fujairah oil terminal while it was loading crude oil. According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the ship began its journey towards India at 10:30 am IST on Sunday, carrying about 80,800 metric tonnes of Murban crude oil. Authorities confirmed that the ship and all Indian crew members onboard are safe.
Government monitoring safety of Indian ships
The Petroleum and Natural Gas Ministry said it is closely monitoring the situation in the region and has taken steps to safeguard Indian ships and sailors operating in the area.
Officials stated that coordination is being maintained with shipping authorities and industry stakeholders to ensure maritime operations continue smoothly despite the tensions. The government also confirmed that no incidents involving Indian seafarers have been reported in the last 24 hours, adding that all Indian crew members in the region are safe.
Two LPG carriers headed towards India
In another positive development, two Indian-flagged LPG carriers: Shivalik and Nanda Devi, have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz.
The vessels, carrying around 92,712 metric tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), crossed the strategic waterway on 14 March 2026 and are currently travelling towards India. As per the government’s update, Shivalik is expected to arrive at Mundra Port on 16 March, while Nanda Devi is scheduled to reach Kandla Port on 17 March.
Indian vessels in the region under close watch
Authorities said that 22 Indian-flagged ships carrying 611 seafarers are currently located west of the Persian Gulf region. The Directorate General of Shipping is keeping a constant watch on these vessels in coordination with ship owners, recruitment and placement agencies, and Indian diplomatic missions.
Control room handling thousands of queries
Officials also revealed that a large number of seafarers and their families have been reaching out for information and assistance since the situation escalated.
Since the activation of the DG Shipping Control Room, authorities have handled 2995 phone calls and more than 5357 emails from seafarers, their relatives and other maritime stakeholders seeking updates and help.
Hundreds of Indian seafarers repatriated
The government has also facilitated the return of several Indian sailors from the Gulf region. So far, 276 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated, including 23 who returned in the past 24 hours through airports and other regional locations.
Officials said Indian ports are carefully monitoring ship movements and cargo operations. The government is also working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions abroad, shipping companies and other maritime stakeholders to ensure the safety of Indian sailors and vessels during the ongoing crisis.
