On May 21, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed that all Indian seafarers in West Asia remain safe amid rising tensions related to the ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran. Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary of the Shipping Ministry, reported that there have been no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels or foreign ships with Indian crews in the last 72 hours. The Directorate General of Shipping has successfully facilitated the repatriation of over 3,300 Indian seafarers, with 99 personnel evacuated recently.
The government is actively monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs regarding maritime operations, particularly around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Mangal emphasized their readiness to send vessels to the region when conditions allow. Currently, there are 13 Indian-flagged vessels and one Indian-owned ship operating in these waters, with authorities ensuring the uninterrupted supply of food and essential goods while adhering to international maritime regulations.
Despite geopolitical tensions and disruptions from the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, Indian port operations remain stable with no significant congestion reported. Furthermore, shipping freight rates, which had sharply increased, are beginning to stabilize, with rates for 20-foot containers dropping from approximately USD 2,400 in mid-April to nearly USD 2,000 now. The ongoing conflict, which began on February 28, has raised maritime security concerns but diplomatic dialogues are reportedly underway to restore safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
