A crude oil tanker from Saudi Arabia has docked at Mumbai Port after navigating the volatile Strait of Hormuz, marking the first vessel bound for India to successfully cross the route since maritime traffic was disrupted by the conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Captained by an Indian, the Suezmax tanker had taken on crude oil at Ras Tanura in Saudi Arabia on March 1 before departing two days later. The ship's last transmitted location inside the Strait of Hormuz was on March 8.
The Strait of Hormuz is among the world's most critical shipping corridors for oil trade, with nearly one-fifth of global crude supplies moving through the narrow passage. However, the route has become increasingly dangerous due to the ongoing conflict.
The tanker, Shenlong, is carrying 1,35,335 metric tonnes of crude oil and is being discharged at Jawahar Dweep. The unloading process is expected to take about 36 hours.
The vessel is owned by Shenlong Shipping Ltd and managed by Dynacom Tanker Management Ltd. Handling operations at the port are being coordinated by Atlantic Global Shipping.
