Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, Mar 14: An Indian-flagged ship carrying more than 40,000 metric tonnes of Liquefied Petroleum Gas has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz under the escort of the Indian Navy.

According to reports, the vessel Shivalik sailed through the strait despite restrictions imposed by Iran and safely entered open waters. The ship is expected to dock at either Mumbai or Kandla Port within the next two days.

Another LPG carrier, Nanda Devi, also crossed the Strait of Hormuz on Friday morning under naval escort and is likely to reach an Indian port within two days.

Earlier, India had requested Iran to allow the passage of Indian-flagged vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. Iran reportedly responded positively to the request and permitted the movement of Indian ships through the crucial waterway.

Sources indicated that more ships carrying supplies to India are expected to pass through the route in the coming days.

Government sources said officials are closely monitoring the movement of vessels, and naval escort will continue in the region until Indian ships safely exit the high-risk zone.

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most critical maritime chokepoints, handling nearly 20 percent of global oil and gas shipments.

Amid the ongoing conflict, Iran has warned that it would target any vessel entering the strait that is linked to or supporting the United States, Israel or their allies. However, Iran has currently allowed the passage of container ships from countries including India, Russia, China, Turkey and Pakistan.