Despite the volatile standoff currently gripping the Strait of Hormuz, India’s energy lifeline remains remarkably intact, with a series of high-capacity tankers successfully docking at Gujarat’s ports this week. The Indian-flagged oil tanker 'Jag Laadki' arrived at Mundra with over 80,000 metric tonnes of crude from the UAE on Wednesday, having navigated the world’s most precarious maritime chokepoint without incident.
This follows a steady stream of arrivals that are vital for a nation consuming roughly 900 million litres of oil every single day. Earlier in the week, the Nanda Devi brought in 46,500 metric tonnes of LPG to Vadinar, while the Shivalik delivered a similar cargo to Mundra— a shipment equivalent to more than three million domestic gas cylinders. These successful transits offer a glimmer of stability for India’s energy security at a time when global crude prices have been pushed stubbornly above the $100 per barrel mark.
While the conflict involving Iran initially saw a sharp decline in vessel movement, the route has proved surprisingly resilient. Around 90 vessels have reportedly braved the passage since tensions escalated, though many are now operating "dark"— disabling public tracking systems to bypass Western restrictions or avoid becoming targets. US President Donald Trump has been vocal in calling for international intervention to keep the Strait open, viewing its secure functioning as the only way to settle a jittery global market.
Interestingly, the chaos hasn't completely stifled Iran’s own exports either. Since March, Tehran has managed to move over 16 million barrels of oil, primarily to China, which remains its most steadfast customer. For the major economies of the world, such as India, the continued flow of these shipments indicates that even though the risks are higher, the sheer global necessity of the Hormuz route means that the economies are not likely to be paralysed completely.
Also read: Indian vessel Nanda Devi reaches Vadinar Port with 46,500 MT LPG
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