Seafarers returning to India from conflict-ridden Iran expressed despair over their situation, as missile strikes occurred nearby and they were unable to secure sign-offs from their vessel’s captain. A Trainee Wiper from Uttar Pradesh recounted the harrowing experience of being stranded. He credited Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI), for facilitating their return. He described the terrifying moments when missiles struck, stating that on Eid, around 70-80 missiles landed, shaking the ground beneath him.
Three Indian crew members were left alone on their ship in Khorramshahr, which was a target for missile attacks. After a tense wait, they were able to leave for Bandar Abbas, where a new captain granted them sign-offs. They then traveled to Bushehr and finally reached Armenia, where he connected with FSUI for assistance. He lamented that half of their salary was consumed by return travel costs and criticized the lack of governmental support for seafarers still stranded in the region.
Another seafarer, from Haryana, echoed the same sentiments, sharing that the ground vibrations from missile strikes made it impossible to sleep. He chose not to inform his family of his perilous situation to avoid causing them distress. Another Seafarer from Andhra Pradesh revealed that Iranians advised them to either flee or jump into the sea with lifejackets. FSUI highlighted the dire circumstances faced by many seafarers, noting that over 20,000 remain trapped and are struggling financially, with some lacking basic necessities.
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