Mangaluru: Amid disruptions in global energy supply chains due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, a major liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) consignment arrived at New Mangalore Port late Wednesday night, offering relief to domestic supply concerns.
The LPG vessel Apollo Ocean docked at the port around 8 PM, carrying approximately 16,000 metric tons of fuel. Unloading operations began shortly after arrival, with officials indicating that the shipment would help stabilise regional availability.
The development follows logistical adjustments involving another vessel, Shivalik, which had earlier reached India via the Strait of Hormuz. Initially expected to deliver part of its cargo to Mangaluru, the ship instead offloaded its entire consignment at a Gujarat port. The fuel was later rerouted to Karnataka through Apollo Ocean, adding complexity to the supply chain.
The situation unfolds against the backdrop of rising geopolitical tensions affecting global trade routes. Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Prime Minister Narendra Modi warned that the conflict has triggered a broader energy crisis, impacting the movement of essential commodities including petrol, diesel, gas and fertilisers.
He emphasised that any disruption in maritime traffic through critical routes like the Strait of Hormuz is a serious concern for India, given its dependence on energy imports. The government, he said, has been actively engaging through diplomatic channels to ensure the safe passage of Indian vessels.
Modi also highlighted the human dimension of the crisis, noting that nearly 10 million Indians reside in Gulf countries, making their safety and livelihood a key priority amid the evolving situation.
The arrival of the LPG shipment is seen as a timely intervention to cushion the impact of global uncertainties on domestic energy supply.
