FSUI says Indian seafarers stranded in Iran and nearby regions are returning in phases, with many reportedly taking difficult routes through Armenia amid the West Asia conflict. FSUI General Secretary Manoj Kumar Yadav urged the government to intensify support for those affected, citing the risks and complexity of getting people home.
Shipping Corporation of India is reportedly considering starting services to West Asia to move stranded cargo amid Gulf tensions that have disrupted vessel movement. The plan comes as India deals with the situation of roughly 19,500 Indian seafarers in the Middle East, some reportedly unwilling to return. India is coordinating with Iran to help enable safe passage.
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The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways said Indian vessels and crew currently in the Persian Gulf are under close monitoring. It also confirmed that all Indian seafarers in the region remain safe. Officials did not indicate any specific incident, but emphasized ongoing oversight to ensure crew welfare and operational continuity.
Indian seafarers say they have been stranded for weeks on a tanker in the Persian Gulf as the Strait of Hormuz remains tense during the Iran war. Some report watching drones and missile blasts from their decks, while communication with families is erratic due to internet disruptions and possible signal jamming—leaving sailors reliant on costly roaming to get through.
India is continuing repatriation operations from West Asia and the Gulf as the security situation evolves, with officials confirming that more than 2,500 Indian seafarers are being brought back. The DG shipping control room, activated to manage coordination, has reportedly received 6,918 calls and 14,605 emails, with safety prioritized across locations.
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