India Monitors 20 Indian-Flagged Ships With 540 Seafarers In Persian Gulf Amid Rising Tensions

India on Saturday said that 20 Indian-flagged vessels carrying around 540 Indian seafarers are currently operating in the western Persian Gulf, where tensions remain high.

The government confirmed that all crew members are safe and no incident involving Indian ships has been reported in the past 24 hours.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said it has taken necessary steps to ensure the safety of Indian vessels and seafarers in the region. It added that all ships and crew are being closely monitored.

The Directorate General of Shipping is tracking these vessels in coordination with ship owners, Recruitment and Placement Service agencies, and Indian missions abroad. Officials said this monitoring is ongoing as a precaution due to the situation in the region.

According to the government, more than 938 Indian seafarers have already been brought back safely, including 25 in the last 24 hours.

At the same time, port operations across India are continuing without any disruption. Maritime boards in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Kerala, Goa, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry have reported normal functioning with no congestion.

The ministry said it is working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian missions, and other maritime stakeholders to ensure the safety of seafarers and smooth shipping operations.

The Ministry of External Affairs also said Indian missions remain in touch with Indians in the region and are providing assistance and safety advisories. Since February 28, around 4,97,000 passengers have returned to India from affected areas in West Asia.

Sources said two more merchant vessels carrying petroleum products for India were expected to pass through the Strait of Hormuz on Saturday, even as tensions continue to affect movement in the area.

The Indian Navy has deployed warships near key ports and important areas to assist ships if needed. More vessels are expected to arrive from the Strait in the coming days.

The government said it is continuing to monitor the situation in the Gulf and West Asia closely, with the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers and citizens remaining its top priority.

References: republicworld, zeenews