Pine Gas, Jag Vasant set to cross Strait of Hormuz as more Indian-flagged LPG tankers begin exiting war-hit Gulf corridor

India is facing mounting pressure on its LPG supply chain as geopolitical tensions in West Asia disrupt global energy flows. While shipments continue to arrive — including major consignments of LPG and crude oil at New Mangalore Port — uncertainties around international transit routes, particularly the Strait of Hormuz, have raised concerns about sustained supply.The domestic impact is already visible across sectors. Restaurants and small businesses, especially in cities like Kolkata, are struggling with fuel shortages and rising costs, forcing many to shift toward alternative energy sources such as electricity. At the same time, demand for piped natural gas (PNG) has surged in urban centres like Pune, reflecting a shift in consumption patterns amid the crisis.The situation has also triggered political reactions, with criticism over rising LPG prices and their effect on livelihoods. Small-scale industries and food service operators are among the worst affected, as higher fuel costs and supply delays disrupt operations.In response, the Centre is considering several measures to manage limited LPG availability. These include reducing the volume of gas in each domestic cylinder and extending waiting periods for refills. While these steps are aimed at ensuring wider access and preventing shortages, they could increase inconvenience for consumers and add pressure on distribution systems.Overall, the crisis highlights India’s vulnerability to global energy disruptions and underscores the need for diversified energy sources and resilient supply mechanisms. Stay with TOI for more Updates: