Amidst the ongoing war in the Middle East, a big tanker carrying crude oil from Saudi Arabia has reached Mumbai safely. This ship has crossed the Strait of Hormuz and reached India, which has brought relief to the concerns regarding fuel supply. According to the information, the Liberian flagged oil tanker Shenlong (Suezmax) had departed from Saudi Arabia carrying approximately 1,35,335 metric tons of crude oil. This ship is operated by Athens based company Dynacom Tankers Management.
This tanker is believed to be the first major oil ship to reach India after crossing the Strait of Hormuz during the recent regional tensions. After reaching Mumbai, the ship has been docked at the port, from where the crude oil will be transported to the refineries located in Mahul area of ​​East Mumbai. According to sources, due to security reasons, the ship had temporarily switched off its AIS tracking system while passing through the sensitive sea area. This system is used to show the location of the ship. The tanker again appeared on the tracking system on 9 March and reached Mumbai on 11 March.
India’s crude oil reserves
Amidst the war in the Middle East, the safe arrival of Saudi Arabia’s shipment is considered important for India, because a large part of the country’s energy needs depends on crude oil coming from Gulf countries. However, in the meantime the government has advised the people of the country not to pay attention to rumours. India has large reserves of crude oil and petroleum products. The country has a total oil stock of more than 250 million barrels by March 2026. This quantity is considered equal to approximately 4000 crore litres.
According to experts, if an emergency arises, this stock can meet the needs of the entire country for about 7 to 8 weeks i.e. about two months. Many sources are included in this total reserves. This also includes petroleum reserves, stocks kept in oil refineries and crude oil coming to India by sea route.
