Government issues advisory asking ships to avoid Strait of Hormuz to safeguard the lives of seafarers
Representation Image. Image courtesy: Wikimedia Commons
New Delhi: In view of the security situation in the Strait of Hormuz, where most sailors killed have been Indians, the government has decided not to deploy Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking trips through the Strait of Hormuz amid renewed fighting between the United States and Iran. This decision by the government comes after two Indian seafarers were killed in attacks on vessels near the strait over the last three days, as tensions escalate in the Middle East.
India so far has lost seven seafarers of the total 16 in attacks on commercial vessels due to attacks from Iran and the US, according to reports.
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA), through a post on X, issued an order to shipowners, ship managers, and recruitment companies on Wednesday, saying that no deployment of Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking voyages involving passage through the Strait of Hormuz until further orders are given.
The advisory – titled “DGMA Advisory on Precautionary Measures for the Safety and Security of Indian Seafarers in view of the Heightened Security Situation in the Gulf Region-reg.” – said the safety, security and welfare of Indian seafarers, and the security of Indian ships, remained central to its mandate.
Citing recent attacks on ships such as Mombasa B, Al Bahyah, GFS Galaxy, MT Wedyan and Al Rekayyat, the advisory stated that over the past few days, the risks faced by seafarers and commercial ships operating in the conflict-affected area have significantly increased.
“In view of the heightened security situation in the Persian Gulf region, including incidents resulting in casualties among Indian seafarers and continuing attacks on merchant vessels during the ongoing conflict, the Directorate considers it necessary to adopt enhanced precautionary measures to safeguard the interests of Indian seafarers serving on board ships operating in the region,” the advisory said.
The ministry, in view of the situation, shared three precautionary measures that needed to be complied with.
Under the “heightened security vigilance” measure, the shipping ministry has directed that masters of vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, and adjoining waters maintain a heightened level of security vigilance, continuously monitor navigational warnings, security advisories, and updates issued by competent authorities, and implement all applicable Ship Security Measures, Ship Security Plans (SSP), and Company Security Procedures in accordance with the ISPS Code.
Regarding “deployment of Indian seafarers”, ship owners, ship managers and RPSL companies have been directed to avoid deploying Indian seafarers on vessels undertaking voyages involving passage through the Strait of Hormuz until further orders.
For any emergency assistance, seafarers and vessels have been instructed to immediately contact the MMDAC (DG Communication Centre) at dgcommcentre-dgs@nic.in or +91 86575 49760 (WhatsApp/Call), with alternate numbers +91 22 22613606 and +91 86575 49752, and/or the IFC-IOR at ifc-ior.gurugram@navy.gov.in or +91 124 2208385.
