Why India’s LPG Vessel ‘Shivalik’ Docked at Mundra Instead of Mumbai

Amid rising geopolitical tensions and disruptions in global energy supply chains, India recently received a crucial LPG shipment that has helped ease immediate concerns. An Indian-flagged LPG carrier, Shivalik, successfully reached Indian shores—but instead of docking at a major hub like Mumbai, it arrived at Gujarat’s Mundra Port. The move raised questions, but the reasons behind it are strategic and practical.

Crisis at the Strait of Hormuz

The backdrop to this development lies in tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil and gas transit routes. Due to escalating conflict in the region, maritime movement faced restrictions, leaving several vessels stranded and raising alarms about global fuel supply disruptions.

India, which relies heavily on energy imports, was also affected. However, diplomatic engagement and coordinated efforts helped prevent a deeper crisis.

Special Clearance for Indian Vessels

Among the affected ships were two Indian LPG carriers—Shivalik and Nanda Devi. Both vessels were granted special permission by Iranian authorities to pass through the restricted Strait of Hormuz.

The LPG vessel Shivalik arrived at Mundra Port today carrying 46,000 tonnes of liquid LPG. Of this, 20,000 tonnes will be unloaded at Mundra, with the remaining to be unloaded at Mangalore. The shipment consists of LPG ordered by the Indian Oil Corporation. pic.twitter.com/zF3sT17A9C

— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) March 16, 2026

This clearance was significant, as the route handles nearly 20% of global oil trade. However, permissions are currently being granted on a case-by-case basis, rather than through any broad agreement.

India has been actively engaging with Iran to ensure continued maritime movement. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar emphasized that direct dialogue remains the most effective way to maintain shipping flow through the region.

Arrival of ‘Shivalik’ and Its Cargo

The Shivalik reached Mundra Port carrying a substantial LPG shipment—estimated between 46,000 and 54,000 tonnes, part of Indian Oil Corporation’s supply chain operations.

Around 20,000 tonnes are being unloaded at Mundra

The remaining cargo is set to be transported to Mangalore for further distribution

Along with Nanda Devi, the two vessels together are carrying nearly 92,700 metric tonnes of LPG, offering timely relief amid supply concerns.

Why Mundra Port Was Chosen

Despite assumptions, docking at Mundra instead of Mumbai was not a last-minute decision. Gujarat ports, including Mundra and Kandla, were already part of the vessels’ planned маршруts.

1. Strategic Role of Gujarat Ports

Gujarat serves as a major gateway for LPG imports into India. Its ports are designed to handle large volumes efficiently and act as key distribution hubs for northern and western regions.

2. Advanced LPG Infrastructure

Mundra Port is equipped with specialized LPG terminals, deep-water jetties, and modern handling systems. These facilities make it ideal for accommodating large LPG carriers like Shivalik.

3. High Storage Capacity

The port has extensive storage infrastructure, including large LPG tanks and integrated pipeline networks. This allows faster unloading and immediate storage, reducing turnaround time.

4. Efficient Distribution Network

From Mundra, LPG can be quickly transported across India through rail, road, and pipeline networks. This ensures faster delivery to high-demand regions.

Limitations of Mumbai Port

While Mumbai is one of India’s busiest ports, it faces certain constraints:

Heavy congestion due to container ships, oil tankers, and commercial traffic

Limited availability of berthing slots for large LPG carriers

Infrastructure constraints for handling very large vessels efficiently

A Practical and Strategic Decision

Given the circumstances, Mundra emerged as the most practical choice. Its deep-water access, modern infrastructure, lower congestion, and strong logistics network made it better suited for handling the urgent LPG shipment.

Even after the safe passage of Shivalik and Nanda Devi, several Indian vessels remain in the Persian Gulf region with hundreds of seafarers onboard. India continues diplomatic efforts to ensure safe and stable maritime routes. The successful arrival of Shivalik highlights not just a logistical decision, but a coordinated response involving diplomacy, infrastructure readiness, and strategic planning.