New Delhi, March 12: The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways announced on Thursday that the number of Indian-flagged vessels operating in the Persian Gulf remains at 28. The ministry emphasized that the safety and security of all Indian ships and their crews are under constant surveillance.
Among these vessels, 24 are located west of the Hormuz Strait, carrying 677 Indian sailors. Meanwhile, four ships are positioned east of the strait, with 101 Indian crew members on board.
According to the ministry, relevant authorities, ship managers, and recruitment agencies are continuously coordinating with Indian embassies and local officials to ensure the safety of sailors and provide medical assistance when necessary.
The advisory issued by the Directorate General of Shipping on February 28, outlining precautionary measures for the safety of Indian sailors, Indian-flagged vessels, and maritime trade operations, remains in effect.
Operations at all ports in the country are proceeding normally. A standard operating procedure (SOP) has been issued for all major ports and state maritime boards to assist shipping companies and exporters through coordination and timely resolution of their issues. A nodal officer has been appointed at each major port as a ‘Single Point of Contact.’
Major ports have also been directed to prioritize berthing for LPG vessels.
Additionally, ports have implemented several facilities, such as allowing affected cargo bound for the Middle East to be stored as transshipment cargo, providing extra storage space, temporarily allowing ships to berth when necessary, expediting the ‘Back to Town’ process in coordination with the customs department, and increasing fuel supply (bunkering) where possible.
Furthermore, major ports have been instructed to coordinate with agencies like customs and DGFT, consider relief on port fees, and send daily action reports to the ministry to ensure smooth logistics during the crisis.
The government has taken several coordinated steps regarding infrastructure, financial assistance, energy security, and the safety of ships.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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