India Repatriates Over 2,500 Seafarers From Gulf Amid Security Concerns
India has repatriated more than 2,563 Indian seafarers from West Asia and the Gulf region as tensions linked to the US-Iran situation continue to affect shipping activity.
The update was shared by Mandeep Singh Randhawa, Director at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, during an inter-ministerial briefing.
He said the government is closely monitoring the situation and keeping the safety of Indian seafarers as its top priority.
According to him, the DG Shipping control room has handled 6,918 calls and over 14,605 emails since it was activated.
In the last 24 hours alone, 25 calls and 135 emails were received.
During the same period, 25 seafarers were brought back, taking the total number of repatriated Indian seafarers to 2,563 from different locations across the Gulf region.
He added that the ministry is working with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions, and maritime stakeholders to support seafarers and ensure that shipping operations continue without disruption.
Amid the ongoing situation, the Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Desh Garima safely crossed the Strait of Hormuz on 18 April.
The vessel is carrying 97,422 metric tonnes of crude oil and has 31 Indian seafarers on board. It is expected to arrive in Mumbai on 22 April 2026.
Randhawa also informed that there were no injuries reported after a firing incident involving two Indian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
In the past 48 hours, VLCC Sanmar Herald and bulk carrier Jag Arnav reported a firing incident while passing through the area. Both vessels returned to the Persian Gulf after the incident as a precaution.
He said the ministry is in constant contact with the crew and vessel owners and is continuing to monitor the situation closely.
He also noted that port operations across India remain normal, with no congestion reported at any port.
Tensions in West Asia continue even as a two-week ceasefire between the United States and Iran remains in place.
Reference: ANI News
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