India has successfully repatriated over 2,563 Indian seafarers from West Asia and the Gulf region amid rising tensions related to the US-Iran situation, which has notably disrupted shipping activities in the area. This update was provided by Mandeep Singh Randhawa, Director at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, during a recent inter-ministerial briefing. The Indian government is prioritizing the safety of its seafarers while closely monitoring ongoing developments.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) has been proactive, managing a control room that has handled approximately 6,918 calls and over 14,605 emails since its activation. Just in the last 24 hours, the control room received 25 calls and 135 emails, resulting in the repatriation of an additional 25 seafarers.
The ministry is collaborating with the Ministry of External Affairs and Indian missions, along with various maritime stakeholders, to ensure uninterrupted shipping operations and support for the seafarers. While tensions have escalated in the region, the Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Desh Garima navigated the Strait of Hormuz safely on April 18, carrying a cargo of 97,422 metric tonnes of crude oil and 31 Indian seafarers. The vessel is expected to arrive in Mumbai on April 22, 2026.
Randhawa also confirmed that there were no injuries reported from a recent firing incident involving two Indian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The VLCC Sanmar Herald and bulk carrier Jag Arnav encountered the incident but returned to the Persian Gulf as a precautionary measure. The ministry maintains constant communication with the crew and vessel owners to ensure their safety and is continuously monitoring the situation.
In terms of operational status, Indian ports are functioning normally, with no reported congestion. Despite the prevailing tensions in the region, the two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran remains in effect, though the situation continues to be closely watched.
In summary, the Indian government is actively repatriating its seafarers, ensuring their safety amid rising geopolitical tensions, while maintaining normal port operations across the country. The collaborative efforts between various governmental departments and maritime stakeholders aim to support seafarers and uphold the integrity of shipping operations during this turbulent period.
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