Shutdown of Hormuz Strait: 38 Indian-flagged ships stranded in Persian Gulf, three sailors dead
PTC News Desk: As tensions increase in West Asia, 37 Indian-flagged ships carrying more than 1,000 Indian sailors are stranded in the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman, and nearby waters. This has happened after the Strait of Hormuz — a very important global oil shipping route — was closed due to ongoing military conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.
Officials said that a total of 37 Indian-flagged vessels with 1,109 sailors are currently stuck in the affected region.
The conflict has already impacted Indian nationals. At least three Indian sailors working on foreign-flagged ships have been killed, and one has been injured in West Asia.
The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) is in constant contact with shipping companies and is closely monitoring the situation. The Shipping Ministry has also set up a special rapid response team to coordinate with authorities and support the stranded sailors and their families.
Officials are keeping watch on growing security threats in the region, including missile and drone attacks, electronic interference, and other risks at sea.
The DGS has issued an advisory asking ship operators to carefully assess the risks of each voyage after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Shipping companies and Recruitment and Placement Service Licensees (RPSLs) have been told to be cautious while sending crews to the region and to stay in regular contact with sailors and their families. Helpline numbers have also been activated to provide assistance.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) is closely monitoring the maritime security situation and has strengthened precautionary measures to protect Indian ships and seafarers in the affected waters.
- With inputs from agencies
