Indian LNG Carrier Disha Becomes First Vessel To Cross Strait Of Hormuz Following US-Iran Agreement
An India-bound liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier, Disha, has safely transited the Strait of Hormuz following reports of a preliminary understanding between the United States and Iran that has eased tensions in the region.
The vessel, chartered by Petronet LNG and operated by a consortium led by the Shipping Corporation of India (SCI), crossed the strategic waterway on Monday and is expected to arrive at Dahej in Gujarat on June 18, according to India’s Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.
Officials said the Malta-flagged vessel is carrying 62,370 metric tonnes of LNG, loaded at Ras Laffan in Qatar, and had remained stranded in regional waters for several months amid heightened security risks in the Gulf.
The ministry said Disha is the first Indian LNG carrier to cross the Strait of Hormuz in nearly two months, as vessel movements through the chokepoint begin to show early signs of resumption.
The Strait of Hormuz, linking the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea, remains a critical global energy corridor.
According to the ministry, around 40% of India’s crude oil imports, 60% of LNG imports and 90% of LPG imports pass through the route from West Asia.
Shipping data and industry tracking reports show that since early March, 10 India-linked vessels have crossed the strait so far, while 13 Indian vessels remain in the Persian Gulf.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said it is coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions abroad, shipping companies and other stakeholders to ensure the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers.
