In an effort to accelerate the delivery of energy supplies from the Gulf region, India has recently approved waivers permitting two Iranian cargo ships to enter its ports. This move comes as the country grapples with its most severe liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) shortage in decades, prompting the government to ration supplies to industries to prioritize household cooking gas needs.
Notably, the LPG tanker Aurora, which is approximately 30 years old, was allowed to dock at the southern port of Mangalore. Additionally, the crude oil tanker Jaya, despite being subject to U.S. sanctions, was also granted permission to unload its cargo. These approvals are reportedly granted on a case-by-case basis, with authorities ensuring that only vessels meeting stringent safety standards receive waivers.
India generally mandates that tankers older than 20 years obtain seaworthiness certification from members of the International Association of Classification Societies or entities authorized by the country’s maritime administration. Furthermore, vessels under U.S. sanctions are typically prohibited from accessing Indian ports. However, Iran has circumvented Western sanctions in recent years by utilizing a “shadow fleet” of older tankers that often lack proper documentation.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas have not provided immediate comments on these developments.
