India categorically rejected the news that there had been discussions between India and Iran over a transit tax for transporting cargos via the Strait of Hormuz. India termed these claims "completely baseless and unfounded" and stated that it divulged significant details concerning the supply of energy because of the increasing tensions in West Asia.
Mr Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Shipping, clarified that there has never been any discussion between India and Iran regarding any transit charge. He further stated that there have been no developments in this regard, considering the increased geopolitical tensions in the region.
Providing an update on the status of merchant vessels, Mangal stated that 16 Indian vessels currently west of the Strait of Hormuz are being closely monitored (tracked). Assuring the continuity of energy supplies, he stated that two important LPG-carrying vessels-the "Green Sanghvi" and "Green Asha"-have safely transited this crucial and sensitive sea route. The "Green Sanghvi" is carrying 46,500 tons of LPG, and the "Green Asha" is carrying 15,500 tons of LPG, and are expected to arrive in India on April 7 and April 9, respectively.
Assessing the energy situation, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, stated that LPG imports have seen a slight decline, while domestic production is also at a limited level. However, she assured that necessary steps are being taken to address this shortfall.
The government's policy measures to meet market demand include:
- Imports from countries like the United States continue, driven primarily by commercial considerations.
- Gas supply to fertilizer plants has been increased by 90 percent.
- City gas distributors are being allocated an additional 10 percent to maintain demand across the country.
Meanwhile, the ongoing crisis in West Asia has also impacted the movement of people. Aseem R. Mahajan, Additional Secretary (Gulf) in the Ministry of External Affairs, stated that approximately 730,000 Indians have returned home since February 28 due to the rapidly changing geopolitical situation in the region. Qatar Airways is operating eight to ten flights to India on Monday to facilitate the safe and smooth movement of passengers.