PTC Web Desk: India has temporarily suspended the deployment of Indian seafarers on ships that pass through the Strait of Hormuz, citing growing security concerns in the Gulf region. The precautionary measure will remain in force until further notice as tensions continue to rise following a series of attacks on commercial vessels.

The directive has been issued by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) and applies to ship owners, ship management companies and Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) agencies responsible for recruiting Indian seafarers.

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Safety advisory for shipping companies

Along with suspending fresh crew deployments on vessels using the Strait of Hormuz, the government has instructed all maritime companies to exercise heightened vigilance while operating in the Arabian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and nearby waters.

Shipping companies have been advised to closely monitor all navigational warnings and security advisories and ensure strict compliance with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code to safeguard ships and crew.

Officials said the decision has been taken as a preventive measure to protect Indian seafarers amid the deteriorating security situation in the region.

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Decision follows fatal attacks

The government's move comes after two Indian seafarers were killed in attacks near the Strait of Hormuz earlier this week. The incidents are part of a broader rise in maritime security threats following the escalation of tensions between the United States and Iran.

According to reports, at least 14 Indian seafarers have lost their lives in attacks in and around the Strait of Hormuz since February 28. The casualties include three Indian sailors who were killed in an attack off the coast of Oman on June 9.

In a separate incident, an Indian crew member who went missing after the July 12 attack on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy near the Omani coast has also been confirmed dead.

Order applies to Indian recruitment agencies

The suspension is binding on Indian shipping companies, vessel management firms and licensed recruitment agencies engaged in deploying Indian seafarers.

However, the government clarified that the directive does not directly apply to foreign shipping companies that recruit crew members outside India, as such hiring falls outside the jurisdiction of Indian recruitment regulations.

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Maritime risks continue to rise

The security situation in the Gulf remains tense, with several shipping companies reportedly avoiding voyages through the Strait of Hormuz or reassessing their transit plans due to fears of further attacks.

The government said the restrictions will remain in place until the security environment improves, with the safety of Indian seafarers remaining its top priority.