US LPG Carrier, Russian Crude Tanker Arrive at New Mangalore Port Amid Hormuz Disruptions

By Admin

23 Mar, 2026

India’s energy supply chain received a timely boost as a US liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) carrier and a Russian crude oil tanker arrived in quick succession at New Mangalore Port. The dual arrivals underscore shifting global trade flows triggered by disruptions in West Asia and highlight India’s efforts to secure alternative energy routes during heightened geopolitical tensions.

The US-flagged LPG vessel Pyxis Pioneer docked on Sunday, delivering 16,714 metric tonnes of LPG for discharge to Aegis Logistics. The vessel had departed from Port of Nederland on February 14, marking a long-haul shipment aimed at strengthening domestic LPG supplies amid global uncertainties.

This arrival follows closely on the heels of the Russian tanker Aqua Titan, which reached the port a day earlier carrying 7.7 lakh barrels of crude oil. The cargo originally destined for China is being discharged via an offshore pipeline system connected to a jetty located about 12 nautical miles from the coast. The shipment is expected to supply Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd, supporting refining operations and ensuring steady fuel availability.

Trade Routes Shift Amid Hormuz Tensions

The back-to-back shipments highlight the ongoing realignment of global energy flows following tensions around the Strait of Hormuz a critical artery for global oil and gas transport. Near-disruptions in the region have constrained supplies to Asian markets, forcing importers like India to diversify sourcing and routing strategies. As geopolitical risks rise, ports on India’s western coast are emerging as key alternatives for energy imports.

Mangaluru Emerges as Strategic Energy Hub

Amid this volatility, Mangaluru is increasingly playing a pivotal role in India’s energy logistics network. The port hosts the country’s largest underground LPG storage facility, commissioned in September 2025, with a capacity of 80,000 metric tonnes. Located 225 metres below sea level, the facility allows efficient storage and supply management, helping cushion against supply shocks and price fluctuations during periods of global uncertainty.

US Moves to Ease Supply Pressure

In a parallel development, the United States has announced a temporary relaxation of sanctions on Iranian oil already in transit, aiming to stabilise global markets. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the move could release up to 140 million barrels into circulation. However, the relaxation does not permit new purchases or production, making it a limited but strategic measure to ease immediate supply concerns.

Oil Prices Surge on Supply Concerns

Global crude prices have remained volatile amid the ongoing tensions, surging from around $70 per barrel pre-conflict to highs of $119.50 this week. The sharp rise reflects tightening supply conditions, shipping uncertainties, and heightened geopolitical risks. Analysts note that continued disruptions in West Asia could further reshape trade flows, pushing India and other Asian economies to diversify energy sourcing strategies even more aggressively.

Conclusion

The arrival of both US and Russian energy shipments at New Mangalore Port highlights India’s growing resilience in managing supply chain disruptions. As tensions around the Strait of Hormuz persist, India’s ability to pivot toward diversified imports and leverage strategic infrastructure in Mangaluru will play a crucial role in safeguarding energy security and stabilising domestic markets.