Amid geopolitical uncertainties in West Asia, India’s government delivered positive news Wednesday: all 611 Indian seafarers aboard 22 vessels in the Persian Gulf are secure, with zero incidents linked to Indian ships over the past day.
A statement from the Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Ministry detailed the proactive measures in place. The DG Shipping is in constant touch with stakeholders, ensuring real-time tracking. The returning LPG carriers Shivalik and Nanda Devi are efficiently discharging cargo on schedule.
The 24/7 control room has fielded thousands of inquiries—3,305 calls and 6,324 emails total, spiking recently—and facilitated the safe return of over 472 seafarers, including 25 yesterday. Ports across India, from Gujarat to Maharashtra, report smooth sailing with no backlogs.
Enhanced monitoring covers all port traffic and cargo handling. Visakhapatnam has added 2,260 sqm of storage, while JNPA’s container pileup has eased to 770 from 1,000. The ministry’s watchful eye extends to every facet of maritime activity, safeguarding trade flows.
Air services are also rebounding. UAE flights hit 70 yesterday, eyeing 75 today, with over 50 daily since early March. Saudi and Omani routes are steady; Qatar restarts flights to nine Indian hubs. Kuwait airspace stays shut, but special charters from Al Qaisumah loom.
As tensions simmer, India’s robust response underscores its commitment to protecting its seafaring workforce and vital trade arteries, maintaining operational normalcy across sea and sky.