Rajesh Kumar Sinha from the Shipping Ministry announced the safe return of 30 seafarers from Gulf airports, raising total repatriations to 253. This initiative underscores India’s commitment to supporting its maritime workforce during challenging times, while ensuring uninterrupted operations at major ports through prioritized berthing of LPG carriers from global locations.
Two Indian-flagged vessels, Shivalik and Nanda Devi, successfully traversed the Strait of Hormuz, transporting 92,700 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) from Gulf nations. They are headed to Mundra and Kandla ports in Gujarat, expected to arrive by March 16 or 17, amid ongoing regional tensions.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has called an Extraordinary Council meeting on March 18-19 to discuss the impact of Middle East tensions on shipping and seafarers in critical maritime regions. This session, chaired by Victor Jiménez, aims to enhance maritime safety and security amid growing concerns from Council Members.
In response to escalating security concerns in the Gulf region, India is intensifying its vigilance over Indian-flagged vessels and crews. Monitoring three key ships in the Gulf of Oman, the government ensures the safety of 76 seafarers aboard, while establishing a 24/7 helpline for support during these turbulent times.
The sail-powered cruise ship Orient Express Corinthian has successfully completed propulsion tests, achieving remarkable speeds for its size. Set to enter service in May 2026, this 25,200 gross ton vessel features 54 suites for 110 passengers and utilizes an innovative Solid Sail system, distinguishing it in the luxury cruise market.
A US-owned oil tanker, the Safesea Vishnu, was attacked near Basra, Iraq, resulting in the death of an Indian crew member. Another vessel, the Malta-flagged Zefyros, was also targeted. The incident prompted the suspension of operations at Iraqi oil terminals amid rising security concerns, while commercial ports remain operational.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) confirmed that Filipino crew members on two vessels attacked near the Strait of Hormuz are safe. DMW Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac reported that 21 Filipino sailors were on one ship and 17 on another, both now heading to safer ports amid rising regional tensions.
Seafarers docking at Ukrainian ports will now receive specialized safety kits from the maritime charity Stella Maris. These kits, funded by Den Norske Krigsforsikring for Skib, include vital first aid supplies and emergency procedures, addressing the urgent needs of crews amidst rising geopolitical tensions and potential threats from missile and drone attacks.
On March 11, two bulk carriers and a container ship were attacked, leaving three seafarers missing from the Mayuree Naree, which was struck by projectiles in the Strait of Hormuz. While the crew’s safety is prioritized, the remaining members were evacuated to Oman, with rescue efforts for the trapped crew ongoing.
During a recent inspection, AMSA officials found 18 deficiencies aboard a vessel, four of which warranted detention. The vessel will be barred from Australian waters until September 4, 2026. AMSA emphasizes its commitment to seafarer welfare, ensuring compliance with the Maritime Labour Convention to protect seafarers’ rights and working conditions.
India’s recent decision to enforce stricter documentation checks for end-of-life vessels aims to tackle the growing issue of fake documents in the dark fleet. The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) seeks to deter the recycling of ships with fraudulent documentation, safeguarding legitimate ship recyclers in a competitive market.
India’s major ports have enacted a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to streamline cargo flow to West Asia amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Effective immediately, this initiative allows transshipment classification for cargo, permitting storage without penalties and prioritizing perishable goods, while enhancing support for domestic market adjustments.
Joakim Haraldsson from Lund University suggests aluminum as a sustainable maritime fuel, potentially cutting CO2 emissions. Renewable energy can be stored in aluminum, released through oxidation on ships. However, challenges like oxide layer formation need addressing. Haraldsson’s research is preliminary, requiring further study before aluminum can be commercially viable in shipping.
On March 9, Turkey’s Supreme Court upheld a 30-year sentence for Chief Mate Ali Albokhari, arrested aboard the Phoenician M after drugs were found. Despite a lack of evidence against him, Albokhari remains imprisoned, facing health issues. NGOs urge for enhanced protections for seafarers amid rising geopolitical threats.
Sascha Meijer, assistant general secretary of Nautilus International, highlighted the urgent need for women’s rights in the maritime industry during a networking event on March 9. She addressed barriers women face, such as career stagnation and harassment, urging collective action to foster genuine improvements beyond just celebrating International Women’s Day.
