Govt Steps Up Vigil To Safeguard Indian Ships, Sailors Amid Iran War Risk

(MENAFN- IANS) New Delhi, March 3 (IANS) The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is closely monitoring the evolving maritime security situation in the Persian Gulf and has strengthened precautionary measures to safeguard Indian-flagged vessels and Indian seafarers operating in the region.

Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal chaired a review meeting on Tuesday to assess the prevailing security environment in the Persian Gulf and examine its implications for Indian maritime assets and personnel.

During the meeting, the Director General of Shipping briefed the minister on the prevailing situation in the region and on the current status of Indian-flagged ships and Indian seafarers in the region.

Speaking after the meeting, Sonowal said: “We are closely monitoring the evolving situation and have activated all necessary precautionary, monitoring and coordination mechanisms to ensure the safety and welfare of our seafarers and the security of our maritime assets. We remain in constant touch with relevant national and international agencies and are prepared to respond swiftly to any emerging development.”

A dedicated Quick Response Team has been set up to enable timely coordination among authorities, ensure immediate response to emerging situations, and facilitate prompt assistance to Indian seafarers and their families. Helpline numbers have also been activated and shared with families of seafarers through recruitment and placement service licensees.

The Ministry, through the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), has activated enhanced monitoring and security oversight in respect to Indian seafarers and Indian-flagged ships in response to reported threats in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and adjoining sea areas, including missile and drone activity, electronic interference and other maritime security concerns.

The Ministry, through the DGS, has also initiated real-time tracking of Indian-flagged vessels with increased reporting frequency and established 24×7 monitoring through the MMDAC DGComm Centre. Mandatory reporting protocols have also been prescribed for vessels, owners and managers.

Close coordination is being maintained with the Indian Navy, the Ministry of External Affairs, the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) and Indian missions abroad. Shipping companies and Recruitment and Placement Service Licensees have been advised to exercise caution in crew deployment and maintain regular communication with seafarers and their families.

The Directorate, IFC-IOR, and other agencies are coordinating closely to ensure their safety and well-being. All necessary support and assistance are being extended to the affected seafarers and their families.

Stakeholders have been advised to maintain heightened vigilance and undertake voyage-specific risk assessments. Vessels operating in the region have been directed to maintain an enhanced security posture and bridge watch, ensure continuous communication readiness and report suspicious activity immediately.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Sonowal said: “India stands firmly with its seafarers and maritime stakeholders. The ministry remains prepared to extend all necessary operational, diplomatic and humanitarian support to safeguard Indian vessels and personnel and will continue active coordination with domestic and international stakeholders to protect India’s maritime interests.”

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