The Indian government said on Saturday that two Indian-flagged ships carrying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) safely crossed the strategic Strait of Hormuz. The vessels are now heading towards India. Officials shared the update during an inter-ministerial briefing on the West Asia conflict.

Rajesh Kumar, Special Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, said several Indian vessels are operating in the Persian Gulf region.

“In the Persian Gulf, on the west of the Strait of Hormuz, there were 24 Indian-flag vessels, out of which, two vessels — Shivalik and Nanda Devi — carrying LPG crossed the Strait of Hormuz safely early morning on Saturday and are heading towards India.”

LPG cargo heading to Gujarat ports

The two ships carry a large supply of cooking gas for India. "These vessels are carrying approximately 92,700 metric tons of LPG; their ports of arrival will be Mundra and Kandla, with expected arrival dates of March 16 and March 17, respectively. Consequently, there are now 22 Indian-flagged vessels remaining in the Persian Gulf, carrying a total of 611 seafarers," the secretary added.

The cargo will arrive at Mundra Port and Kandla Port in Gujarat. Officials said 22 Indian-flagged ships still remain in the Persian Gulf. These vessels have 611 seafarers on board.

Government confirms safety of Indian seafarers

Rajesh Kumar said all Indian sailors in the region are safe. Authorities have not reported any incidents involving them in the last 24 hours. The government continues to monitor the situation in the Gulf closely.

Centre urges people not to panic-buy fuel

The government also asked citizens not to panic-buy LPG, petrol or diesel. Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, said officials discussed LPG supply for commercial users,“a decision was taken to allocate a certain quantity of LPG to commercial cylinders”.

LPG distribution expanded across states

Sharma said the Centre coordinated with state governments to ensure smooth supply. "In this context, discussions have also been held with the State Governments. Consequently, these commercial cylinders have been placed at the disposal of the State Governments to prioritize the consumers. In this regard, the distribution of commercial cylinders has already commenced in approximately 29 States and Union Territories, and they have reached the consumers. Online booking currently stands at approximately 84%; however, this figure needs to improve to nearly 100%..."

Officials said LPG distribution has already started in 29 states and Union Territories.

Petrol and diesel supply remains stable

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas also reassured citizens about fuel availability. “Petrol and diesel are adequately available at retail outlets across the country,” the ministry said.

Officials urged people not to store fuel in loose containers because it can create serious safety risks.