Amid escalating maritime security concerns in West Asia following attacks on two merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has launched a comprehensive ‘Seafarer-First’ initiative to safeguard Indian seafarers operating in the conflict-affected region. The Minister has directed a whole-of-government response to ensure their safety and welfare. 

Chairing a high-level inter-ministerial review meeting in New Delhi, Mr Sonowal ordered real-time vessel-by-vessel monitoring, and the appointment of dedicated liaison officers for every affected Indian seafarer in the region. The Minister also ordered for round-the-clock coordination by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, in association with Ministry of External Affairs, Petroleum and Natural Gas, Chemicals and Fertilisers, the Indian Navy, the Directorate General of Shipping and Indian Missions in Iran and Oman.

The Minister directed the Directorate General of Shipping to establish a real-time operational dashboard to track every Indian seafarer aboard vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, irrespective of the vessel’s flag. He also instructed authorities to coordinate closely with Indian Missions in Iran, Oman and the UAE for real-time information on navigational safety, medical evacuation and repatriation. Mr Sonowal further directed shipowners, vessel managers and recruitment agencies to ensure that no Indian seafarer is compelled to sail without adequate information, protection and support. He said the government remains committed to safeguarding Indian seafarers and ensuring the uninterrupted movement of global trade through the region.

The review comes in the wake of attacks on merchant vessels MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa in the Strait of Hormuz. The two vessels had 30 Indian seafarers among a total crew of 46. One Indian seafarer was killed and another injured in the attack on MT Al Bahiyah. On MT Mombasa, nine Indian nationals were injured, including two who remain critically injured.

Expressing grief over the loss of the Indian seafarer, Mr Sonowal conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He assured that the Government would extend all possible assistance to affected seafarers and their families.