At least three Indian seafarers on board foreign-flagged vessels were killed and one was injured in the Middle East region, the Directorate General of Shipping said on Tuesday as it issued an advisory for maritime operators to assess voyage-specific risks amid escalated military actions involving the US, Israel and Iran that threaten disruptions of major trade routes.
“There have been four reported incidents involving Indian seafarers in the region, resulting in three casualties and one injured seafarer, all of whom were serving on board foreign-flagged vessels,” the Directorate General of Shipping said.
In an advisory, it said it is closely monitoring the evolving maritime security situation in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and adjoining sea areas. It stated that the threats of the recent geopolitical developments included missile and drone activity, electronic interference and other maritime security concerns.
The directorate said the remaining crew members on board are safe and secure, and the authorities are maintaining close coordination with all stakeholders to ensure their continued safety, well-being and timely support. All necessary support, assistance and facilitation are being extended to the affected seafarers and their families, it said.
The directorate further said it has activated enhanced monitoring and security oversight, real-time tracking of Indian-flagged vessels with increased reporting frequency and 24X7 monitoring.
It said a dedicated “quick response team” has also been formed to ensure timely coordination among all authorities, enable immediate response to emerging situations and facilitate prompt assistance and support to Indian seafarers and their families.
Stakeholders have been advised to maintain heightened vigilance and undertake voyage-specific risk assessments and vessels operating in the region have been advised to maintain an enhanced security posture and bridge watch, ensure continuous communication readiness, and report any suspicious activity immediately with transit through high-risk areas to be reviewed by operators based on prevailing conditions, the shipping authority said.
“Mandatory reporting protocols have been prescribed for vessels, owners and managers, and close coordination is being maintained with the Indian Navy, Ministry of External Affairs, IFC-IOR, MRCC and Indian Missions,” it said.
Shipping companies have also been advised to exercise due caution in crew deployment and to maintain regular communication with seafarers and their families.
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