New Delhi: The India-bound LPG tanker Sarv Shakti has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, making it the first India-linked vessel to navigate the route since the US naval blockade was implemented weeks ago. The Marshall Islands-flagged ship is carrying over 46,000 metric tonnes of LPG and is currently on its way to Visakhapatnam.
The vessel is expected to reach the Vizag dock on May 13. There are 20 crew members on board, out of which 18 are Indian nationals. If ‘Sarva Shakti’ reaches India safely, it can play a significant role in eliminating the gas shortage in the market.
“As per official sources, MT Sarv Shakti (IMO No. 9350599), carrying 46,313 MT of LPG (Indian cargo), with 20 crew members onboard, including 18 Indians, has safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz today, 02 May 2026, and is expected to arrive at Visakhapatnam on 13 May 2026,” as reported by ANI.
Government monitors maritime safety
Despite the hurdles, the government is continuously trying to maintain a sense of normalcy. The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Addl. Secretary, Shri Mukesh Mangal confirmed on Saturday that all Indian seafarers in the Gulf region are currently safe.
They have also set up a dedicated control room that has been working overtime, handling thousands of calls and emails to monitor vessel movements and coordinate with international missions. So far, nearly 3,000 Indian seafarers have been safely repatriated from the region.
Diplomatic standoff over vital waterway continues
The situation remains a diplomatic deadlock in the Middle East as Iran has reportedly offered to ease its grip on the Strait of Hormuz but only if the United States ends its blockade. Crucially, Iran’s proposal does not address its controversial nuclear programme which remains a major sticking point for Western powers.
While the diplomatic back-and-forth continues, Indian port operations are reportedly functioning without any major congestion. The government remains in close contact with maritime stakeholders to ensure that essential supplies like the cargo on the Sarv Shakti continue to arrive without further disruption.