New Delhi: The Indian government said 28 vessels carrying 778 Indian seafarers remain stranded in the Persian Gulf amid the tense security situation in West Asia. Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, shared the details during a media briefing on Wednesday.
According to the official, 24 of these ships are located on the western side of the Strait of Hormuz. These vessels have 677 Indian seafarers on board. The remaining four ships are positioned on the eastern side of the strait with 101 crew members.
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes for global oil and cargo movement.
Government monitoring situation closely
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said it is closely tracking the safety of all Indian ships and crew members in the region.
“We are monitoring all the vessels actively for their safety and security. Authorities, ship managers and recruitment agencies…are closely coordinating with Indian embassies and local authorities to ensure safety and render medical assistance to them,” Rajesh Kumar Sinha said during the briefing.
Officials said communication channels remain active between government agencies, ship owners and maritime authorities.
Advisories issued for Indian vessels
The Directorate General of Shipping has issued advisories to Indian flagged vessels and Indian seafarers operating in the region. The advisories call for stronger security practices and strict reporting procedures.
Indian ships have been asked to follow enhanced safety protocols and provide real time operational details to authorities.
The government said these steps aim to improve monitoring and quick response in case of any emergency.
Ports in India continue normal operations
The government said port operations across India remain stable despite the evolving situation in West Asia.
Major ports have taken precautionary steps such as continuous tracking of vessel movement and regular coordination with shipping lines and vessel agents.
Officials said authorities also assess developments in the region in real time and maintain regular reporting of cargo and vessel status.
The ministry has set up dedicated control rooms that operate 24 hours a day. These control centres are functioning at the ministry as well as at the Directorate General of Shipping.
Officials remain in contact with ship owners, operators, and seafarer associations to provide updates and support. Ports have also been directed to help exporters and maintain smooth EXIM trade operations during the ongoing regional tensions.