Shivalik Navigates Strait of Hormuz
The Shivalik, an Indian-flagged LPG carrier with a capacity of over 54,000 tonnes, successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz on March 13, 2026. The vessel had departed from Ras Laffan, Qatar, on March 7 and was originally bound for the United States, but recent geopolitical tensions altered its course.
According to tracking data from a maritime monitoring platform, the crossing involved considerable risks due to the prevailing conflict in the region. The Indian Navy has clarified that there were no naval escorts aiding the Shivalik during its passage.
Importance of LPG Shipments
The successful transit of the Shivalik holds significant importance for India’s energy security, as the ship’s cargo could account for approximately one day of the country’s LPG imports. The vessel is owned by the Shipping Corporation of India and was built in 2008. The Shivalik, along with another LPG carrier, the Sahyadri, was added to the SCI’s fleet in late 2025.
Background of Regional Tensions
The Strait of Hormuz, a key chokepoint for global oil shipments, has seen heightened military activities and geopolitical conflicts, especially since late February. The Indian government has been monitoring the situation closely, as 28 Indian-flagged vessels became stationary in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman due to the unrest.
A government official confirmed that one oil tanker, Jag Prakash, which was initially stranded, has resumed its journey. Unlike the Shivalik, the Jag Prakash did not have to navigate the Strait of Hormuz and was instead headed for Africa, having loaded at Sohar Port in Oman.
Remaining Vessels in Limbo
Even with the Shivalik’s successful crossing, 27 other Indian-flagged vessels remain immobilized in the region, as concerns linger about maritime safety amid threats of conflict. Officials report that three additional cargo ships, containing 76 crew members, currently reside in the Gulf of Oman, while 23 ships are still stuck in the Persian Gulf.
Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary from the Shipping and Waterways Ministry, mentioned, “There are approximately 23,000 Indian nationals working in various capacities on merchant vessels in the Persian Gulf region. We are in constant communication with them to ensure their safety.” However, it is noteworthy that attacks on ships have already led to fatalities among Indian seafarers. Four Indian sailors have died in hostilities since the conflict erupted.
Fatal Attacks Raise Concerns
One such incident involved the ship Safesea Vishnu, which was hit near Basra, Iraq, leading to one Indian crew member’s death in what has been characterized as a targeted assault. The surviving crew, consisting of 15 additional members, were reported safe, which is a minor relief amid ongoing alerts regarding maritime security.
The vessel, managed by a New Jersey-based firm but utilizing Indian management services, highlights the complex layers of ownership and management of many vessels navigating these perilous waters.
Government Measures and Public Reassurances
In response to the uncertain maritime environment, the Indian government has taken steps to provide updates and facilitate safe operations for its shipping lines. During a briefing, officials stated that discussions are ongoing, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi having recently spoken to Iranian leadership to address the challenges posed to Indian shipping.
However, officials emphasized the need for caution. On March 12, the government stated that it may not be realistic to expect Iranian authorities to allow Indian vessels unimpeded access through the Strait of Hormuz in the immediate future. The local maritime community has been urged to stay informed through verified communications, as misinformation rife across social media platforms can create unnecessary panic.
Shipping Directorate Advisory
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has circulated an advisory highlighting the need to refrain from sharing unverified reports, which could result in heightened anxiety for seafarers and their families. The organization has encouraged stakeholders to maintain confident and responsible communication in these uncertain times.
Sinha reiterated, “Responsible communication is paramount to reducing fear and maintaining trust among our seafarers and their families during this sensitive period. We continue to monitor all relevant developments closely, aiming to provide authentic updates.”
Difficulties of Navigation in Conflict Zones
The challenges of navigating through the Strait of Hormuz have been amplified by tactics employed by conflicting parties. Media sources have reported that many vessels are crossing the strait with their Automatic Identification System (AIS) disabled, which makes them harder to track but also exposes them to increased risk.
The Shivalik successfully managed its journey without being tracked via AIS, a practice that some ships have adopted in response to security concerns. Richard Meade, the editor of a maritime industry publication, noted, “We’ve observed multiple transits through the Strait over the past few weeks, but the tactics used by vessels are evolving due to the risks involved. This presents a more complex scenario in maritime logistics today.”\
Response from Industry Leaders
The shipping industry has expressed ongoing concerns about the safety of maritime routes in volatile regions. Leaders indicate that operations may need to adapt increasingly to risks, where navigating through heightened tensions is now a daily reality.
As Iran maintains a firm stance regarding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, shipping companies are preparing operational contingency plans to minimize exposure to conflict-related risks. The unrest in the region has already seen global shipping partners reevaluate their routes.
International Implications
The geopolitical turmoil is not just impacting Indian vessels but is affecting global supply chains as well. With approximately 600 vessels reportedly immobilized in the region since the conflict began, the increasing uncertainties are critically affecting oil prices and shipping timelines.
International analysts are closely observing these changes, as they spotlight how geopolitical tensions disrupt global trading networks. “The unfolding situation in the Strait will have rippling effects on oil markets and shipping costs,” a leading industry analyst remarked.
Final Thoughts and Future Monitoring
As the situation continues to evolve, stakeholders within the shipping community must remain vigilant and adapt to new developments. The government of India is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its maritime operations as international tensions unfold.
Sinha concluded that the shipping sector is resilient but requires continuous support and strategic foresight. The likelihood of further challenges looms, especially as maritime routes become increasingly intertwined with global political climates.
The next few months will determine how Indian shippers navigate not only the Strait of Hormuz but also the complex landscape of global trade in turbulent geopolitical waters.