As concerns mount over potential disruptions in key maritime routes, the Indian government has issued a strong statement affirming the security of its shipping assets west of the Strait of Hormuz. Twenty-two ships flying the Indian flag host 611 seafarers, all reported safe with no incidents over the past 24 hours.
During a press briefing, Rajesh Kumar Sinha, Special Secretary at the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, detailed the progress of the ‘Shivalik’ LPG carrier. Having departed the Persian Gulf, it has cleared the strait and is heading home. ‘All port facilities are prepped for its arrival, prioritizing berthing to expedite cargo discharge,’ Sinha explained.
Reassuring the nation, Sinha confirmed ongoing vigilance. ‘We’re in touch with every vessel and crew member. The situation remains stable,’ he said. The 22 ships in the area continue operations without hindrance.
A notable success story is the tanker ‘Jag Ladki’, which set sail from the UAE on March 14 carrying 81,000 tons of crude. Slated to arrive at Mundra port by March 17, the ship and its Indian crew are fully secure.
Complementing these maritime updates, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal outlined citizen evacuations from conflict zones. Ninety Indians have safely crossed into Azerbaijan from Iran, thanks to embassy support in Tehran for visas and border procedures.
Earlier reports of 550 people moving to Armenia included 284 pilgrims, many of whom are now back in India or en route. The embassy’s relentless efforts extend to helping students shift to safer locations beyond Tehran, operating seamlessly amid regional unrest.
India’s proactive measures highlight a robust framework for citizen safety in volatile international waters and lands.