Amid escalating tensions in West Asia, India is focusing on the safety of its vessels and seafarers operating in the Gulf region. Currently, there are three Indian-flagged ships in the Gulf of Oman and 24 in the Persian Gulf, as reported by Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Chief Secretary of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways. He confirmed that the Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping) is continuously monitoring these vessels, ensuring the safety of 76 Indian seafarers aboard the ships in the Gulf of Oman and 677 seafarers on those in the Persian Gulf.
India has around 23,000 seafarers working in various maritime capacities across the Gulf, and the DG Shipping maintains constant communication with them through recruitment agencies, Indian missions, and other stakeholders. A recent advisory was issued on March 4, highlighting the importance of staying connected. The DG Communication Centre has received around 2,425 calls and approximately 4,500 emails from seafarers, their families, and stakeholders since February 28.
Sinha also discussed the facilitation of return for seafarers whose contracts have ended. Approximately 200-225 Indian nationals have been successfully returned from the Gulf in coordination with Indian embassies.
To ensure ongoing safety, Sinha reminded seafarers to utilize the DG Shipping communication center for any issues, adhere to safety directives from local authorities, and conduct security drills as mandated. The DG Shipping has been proactive in providing updates and helpline contact details to the 7.5 lakh Indian seafarers registered.
Impact on Indian port operations remains stable, with the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures to ensure coordination with shipping lines and exporters. Measures have been instituted to prioritize LPG carriers and expedite handling of perishable and returning export cargo. Additionally, ports are facilitating storage for Middle East-bound cargo affected by the regional turmoil.
Regrettably, the ongoing crisis has seen the loss of lives, with three Indian nationals reported dead and one missing. Four seafarers sustained minor injuries but have received medical attention. The DG Shipping is in contact with the families of affected seafarers, ensuring they are kept informed.
The backdrop of this maritime tension stems from the conflict following the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, by joint US-Israeli military action, leading to Iranian retaliatory strikes on US and Israeli assets in the region. This turmoil has disrupted the strategic waterways, impacting international energy markets and contributing to global economic instability.
In summary, India is taking comprehensive measures to safeguard its maritime assets and personnel in response to the current challenges in the region, while also maintaining operational stability at its ports.
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