Shivalik and Nanda Devi carriers ease fears of gas supply disruption
March 14, 2026: Amid rising tensions during the West Asia conflict, India received a major relief as two LPG carriers successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy corridor. The Shivalik LPG Carrier, operated by the Shipping Corporation of India, safely passed through the strategic route earlier. Originally built in South Korea and later acquired by India as a second-hand vessel, the ship joined India’s gas carrier fleet on September 10, 2025. It has a capacity of about 54,534 metric tons of LPG and measures roughly 225 meters in length and 37 meters in width.
Soon after, another Indian vessel, the Nanda Devi LPG Carrier, also crossed the strait safely and began its journey toward India. The ship was originally built in Japan in 2001 and was later purchased by India as a second-hand vessel before joining the fleet in 2017. It can transport around 53,503 metric tons of LPG and measures about 227 meters in length and 36 meters in width.
The successful passage of both ships is being viewed as an important strategic and diplomatic achievement for India, especially as global energy routes face pressure due to tensions involving Iran. The development also comes amid political debate, with opposition leaders including Arvind Kejriwal questioning whether assurances had been received from Tehran regarding safe passage for Indian vessels. Experts say the movement of these LPG carriers helps reduce immediate fears of gas shortages in the country during the ongoing crisis.