The safety of bulk carriers has improved over time, with only 17 vessels lost and 71 seafarer fatalities reported from 2016 to 2025. However, emerging risks such as cargo liquefaction and regional threats highlight the complexity of maritime safety. Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to sustain these safety advancements.
The Indian-flagged bulk carrier APJ Priti 2 successfully navigated the Strait of Hormuz, transporting 65,000 metric tonnes of fertiliser amid regional tensions. This transit is a positive sign for India’s cargo movement, alleviating logistical pressures and ensuring the vital supply of fertiliser for agricultural chains, despite lingering security concerns.
Maritime workers face a higher risk of fatalities and injuries than the national average. With rising security incidents, industry leaders are looking to manufacturing for innovative safety technologies. By integrating IoT sensors and data-driven strategies, maritime operations can enhance safety, streamline processes, and better protect personnel and assets.
Investigators determined that the shiphandling operation relied on a pre-departure agreement, with a relief master overseeing the mate. Shortcomings in training programs were noted, prompting the towage operator to standardize training. Following incidents of towline failures, the company revised safety measures, improving maritime safety protocols significantly.
At the G7 summit in France, US President Trump praised his meeting with Indian Prime Minister Modi, highlighting ongoing US-India trade talks. Modi raised safety concerns for Indian seafarers in the volatile Strait of Hormuz. Trump acknowledged the risks, reaffirming US-India cooperation and support for Indian maritime crews.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has confirmed the safety of Indian seafarers and vessels near the Strait of Hormuz, with no incidents reported in 72 hours. Director Opesh Kumar Sharma reassured the public, stating that the situation remains stable and the Directorate General of Shipping is actively coordinating for seafarers’ welfare.
Amid a geopolitical crisis in the Persian Gulf, BIMCO and five major maritime organizations have issued vital navigation guidance for ships in the contested Strait of Hormuz. This collaboration aims to address challenges faced by hundreds of vessels delayed in the region, emphasizing operational safety and contingency planning for increased maritime activity.
The International Maritime Organization’s Maritime Safety Committee has approved amendments to enhance ship-tracking data accessibility under SOLAS. Coastal nations will access standard ship position reports for free, improving vessel monitoring and safety. Additionally, the VHF Data Exchange System will replace AIS, enhancing data security and reducing spoofing risks starting January 1, 2028.
On Tuesday, the UK Maritime Trade Operations reported an external explosion on the tanker Olympic Life, located 60 nautical miles from Muscat, Oman. While the crew is safe, bunker fuel was discharged into the sea. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, prompting an investigation into potential environmental impacts.
The International Maritime Organization’s Maritime Safety Committee has approved new safety guidelines for ammonia as fuel on gas carriers. Developed in collaboration with industry experts, these guidelines provide a practical framework for managing safety risks, paving the way for the commercial use of ammonia-fueled vessels and alleviating uncertainties for shipowners.
The Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) is monitoring 17 vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, carrying nearly 300 Filipino seafarers. This highlights the risks faced by maritime workers in the region. The DMW is collaborating with various agencies to ensure safety, provide real-time updates, and support affected seafarers and their families.
On May 21, the Ministry of Ports confirmed that Indian seafarers in West Asia are safe despite regional tensions. Mukesh Mangal assured no incidents involving Indian vessels occurred recently. The government is monitoring the situation closely, with over 3,300 seafarers repatriated and plans to send ships if conditions permit.
The maritime industry faces workforce shortages, making diversity essential, especially for women’s participation in seafaring. The International Chamber of Shipping’s guidelines highlight women’s challenges at sea. Despite comprising 19% of maritime jobs ashore, women are only 1% of active seafarers, underscoring the need for supportive policies and environments.
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.
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.
