India is coordinating with Iranian officials to ensure the safe passage of 22 Indian-flagged merchant vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been effectively closed due to ongoing tensions with Israel and the US. Rajesh Kumar Sinha, the special secretary for the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, confirmed that 611 Indian seafarers on these vessels are being closely monitored, reporting no incidents over the past 24 hours and continuous communication with crews.
Two Indian-flagged LPG carriers successfully crossed the Strait on March 14, transporting approximately 92,712 MT of LPG without delays in cargo discharge. A third ship carrying crude oil is also safe en route to India. The Directorate General of Shipping has facilitated the repatriation of 286 Indian seafarers from the Gulf region, managing thousands of calls and emails for assistance from maritime stakeholders.
Officials stated that coordination is ongoing to safeguard Indian vessels and seafarers in the area. Recent discussions between Indian and Iranian foreign ministers focused on shipping safety amid rising regional tensions, highlighting the responsibility of the US in exacerbating the situation. India continues to monitor LPG supplies in light of these geopolitical developments.
