Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, reported that 11 Indian ships have successfully exited the Strait of Hormuz, while 13 remain in the Persian Gulf. He addressed concerns about Iranian vessels using alternative routes and emphasized ongoing diplomatic efforts to ensure the safe passage of remaining ships.
The Mumbai Water Metro project aims to introduce ferries to ease traffic congestion, marking a significant advancement in India’s water transport. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis emphasized the state’s commitment to a sustainable system. A partnership with Norway’s Hyke AS will enhance infrastructure and develop advanced vessels, supporting the region’s growing transportation needs.
Following the launch of a ship-to-ship bunkering service at Vizhinjam International Seaport, the Kerala Maritime Board initiated operations using coastal barges. Recently, 120,000 liters of diesel were delivered to the detained Vietnam-flagged vessel MT Solis, marking a significant advancement in local fueling capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign ports.
The Maritime India Foundation has partnered with IIT Madras, IIT Bombay, and Indian Maritime University to establish Maritime Innovation Hubs under the Sagarmala Startup Innovation Initiative. This collaboration aims to mentor 36 startups on 40 projects, addressing key challenges in the maritime sector and fostering technological advancements in line with Atmanirbhar Bharat.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved an advanced Ship Repair Facility in Vadinar, Gujarat, with a ₹1,570 crore investment. This initiative aims to enhance India’s ship repair capabilities, create around 290 direct jobs, and support regional economic growth, aligning with Maritime India Vision 2030.
In a landmark decision, the Bombay High Court ordered the release of 50 seafarers stranded on detained vessels off Mumbai. The court condemned the ship owners for subjecting the crew to “dehumanizing” conditions, highlighting their survival on just 300 ml of water daily. Prioritizing human rights, the court emphasized the crew’s well-being over commercial interests.
The Bombay High Court expressed serious concerns for the safety of 50 Indian crew members stranded on three vessels in the Arabian Sea. The crew, stuck since February due to police intervention, reported dwindling food and water supplies. The court ordered state authorities to provide urgent assistance while addressing the ship owners’ abandonment.
The Indian government has successfully repatriated over 2,922 seafarers from the Gulf, with 30 returning in the last 24 hours. Collaborating with various ministries, the government is ensuring their welfare amid a closely monitored situation in West Asia. Port operations remain stable, and flight services are gradually improving.
Seafarers returning from conflict-ridden Iran expressed despair over their situation. Manan Singh Chauhan recounted terrifying missile strikes, claiming, “On Eid, 70-80 missiles shook the ground.” Stranded in Khorramshahr, he and his crew awaited sign-offs. Criticizing government inaction, he lamented that half their salary went to travel costs.
India has repatriated 29 seafarers from the Gulf, raising the total to 2,829. Amid rising tensions in West Asia, Mukesh Mangal reassured that all Indian vessels remain safe, with no incidents reported recently. The government also dismissed viral claims of fuel price hikes as false, urging the public to verify information.
Vizhinjam International Seaport Limited (VISL) is launching a major expansion, signing three Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to enhance its infrastructure. The first phase involves an ₹800 crore investment via public-private partnerships, featuring a significant collaboration with Indian Oil Corporation to establish a dedicated oil bunkering facility, strengthening Vizhinjam’s position as a maritime hub.
Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) reported impressive financial results for FY26, achieving a revenue of ₹7,002 crore and a 42% increase in profit after tax, totaling ₹748 crore. Chairman Cmde PR Hari noted the delivery of eight warships, emphasizing GRSE’s operational strengths and commitment to future growth and innovation.
On Tuesday, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways reassured that all Indian vessels and crews in the Persian Gulf are safe, despite rising tensions. Additional Secretary Mukesh Mangal confirmed no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels, emphasizing active monitoring and successful repatriation efforts for over 2,800 Indian seafarers. Operations remain normal.
India’s inland waterways sector has reached a historic milestone, transporting 145.84 million metric tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25, positioning it among Asia’s most commercially active systems. Passenger traffic surged to 76 million journeys, driven by new services and urban demand. Ongoing investments and infrastructure improvements promise continued growth.
The Bombay High Court has raised the compensation for the family of Rajesh Deshmukh, a deceased maritime engineer, from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 1.31 crore. Justice Jitendra Jain criticized the Motor Accident Claims Tribunal for underestimating Deshmukh’s income, emphasizing the higher earnings in the offshore sector. The insurer must deposit the revised amount within 12 weeks.
