India is actively coordinating with Iranian authorities to ensure the safe transit of 22 Indian-flagged merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively blocked by Iranian forces amid escalating tensions involving Israel and the United States. Rajesh Kumar Sinha, the Special Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, provided an update indicating that these vessels, carrying a total of 611 Indian seafarers, are currently situated to the west of the Strait.
Sinha confirmed that all Indian seafarers in the Persian Gulf remain safe, with no incidents reported over the previous day. The government is maintaining constant communication with each vessel and its crew. On March 14, two Indian-flagged LPG carriers successfully navigated the Strait, transporting approximately 92,712 metric tons of LPG towards India. Necessary arrangements at the port have been made to ensure prompt unloading of the cargo upon arrival. The second LPG carrier was anticipated to reach an Indian port early the following morning.
In addition, another Indian-flagged ship carrying crude oil has departed from the UAE and is safely en route to India. The Directorate General of Shipping has established a Control Room that has processed over 3,030 calls and 5,497 emails from seafarers and their families inquiring about assistance. They have facilitated the repatriation of 286 Indian seafarers from the Gulf region, with 33 repatriations occurring in the last 48 hours.
India’s External Affairs Ministry has engaged in multiple discussions with Iranian officials regarding shipping safety and energy security, emphasizing the importance of monitoring the situation closely. In recent communications, Iranian officials pointed to US actions as contributing factors to the heightened risks faced by shipping in the Persian Gulf.
As geopolitical tensions persist, Indian authorities are committed to safeguarding maritime operations and continuing oversight of LPG supply chains in the region.
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