West Asia crisis: Green Asha Completes Key Transit, 8th Indian-Flagged Vessel Crosses Strait of Hormuz

Amid rising tensions in West Asia, India’s maritime resilience is being tested in one of the world’s most sensitive chokepoints. Yet, Indian-flagged vessels continue to navigate these waters, ensuring critical energy supplies remain uninterrupted.

The India-flagged vessel Green Asha has successfully transited the Strait of Hormuz, official sources told ANI on Monday. This marks the eighth India-flagged vessel carrying LPG to pass through the strategic waterway since February 28, when hostilities in the region escalated.

How Are Indian Vessels Navigating a Conflict Zone?

Despite a volatile maritime environment, Indian shipping continues to push forward. The large gas carrier Green Sanvi safely crossed the Strait on Friday night, carrying approximately 46,650 metric tonnes of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), according to official sources.

Earlier, on March 28, another major shipment—47,000 metric tonnes of LPG—arrived at the Vadinar Terminal of DPA Kandla in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The vessel, MT Jag Vasant, is set to transfer its cargo through a Ship-to-Ship (STS) operation at anchorage.

Indian Navy warships remain on standby, ready to assist merchant vessels navigating the region, sources confirmed.

What Steps Is India Taking to Ensure Maritime Safety?

The Centre has been actively engaging with Iranian authorities to secure safe passage for Indian vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, even as a maritime blockade looms over the region.

At a joint inter-ministerial briefing, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Mukesh Mangal, reassured that all Indian vessels and crew in the Persian Gulf are under close watch.

“All seafarers in the Persian Gulf remain safe,” he added. He further stated, “18 Indian vessels with around 485 seafarers are in the region. Over 964 seafarers have been repatriated so far, while ports across India continue to operate normally.”

On operational coordination, he said, “We are maintaining continuous coordination with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions abroad, and other stakeholders in the maritime sector.”

Why Does This Matter for India’s Energy Security?

With nearly 5,98,000 passengers returning to India amid the evolving security situation in West Asia, the safe transit of LPG vessels underscores the government’s dual focus—protecting citizens while safeguarding critical supply chains.

As geopolitical tensions persist, India’s ability to maintain steady energy inflows through one of the world’s most crucial maritime corridors remains a significant strategic achievement.

(With inputs from ANI)