Gulf Crisis: Government Steps Up Maritime Security Measures for Indian Sailors

The Government of India has intensified monitoring and response measures to safeguard Indian seafarers amid escalating security concerns in the Gulf region. The move comes in the wake of a deadly missile attack on a merchant tanker that claimed the lives of three Indian sailors and underscored growing threats to commercial shipping routes in West Asia.

Heightened Vigilance Across Key Maritime Corridors

In view of the rapidly evolving security situation in the Gulf region and surrounding waters, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), through the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), is maintaining continuous surveillance over developments in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and adjoining maritime areas.

According to an official release, "The Government is closely coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Navy, Indian Missions abroad, maritime administrations of friendly countries, shipping companies, seafarers' welfare organisations and other relevant stakeholders to ensure timely support and assistance to Indian seafarers."

The release noted that recent incidents involving merchant vessels have exposed increasing risks to commercial shipping in the region.

"Recent security incidents involving merchant vessels operating in the region have highlighted the increasing risks faced by commercial shipping. Recognising the strategic importance of these international shipping lanes to global trade and energy security, the Government has directed all concerned agencies to remain on heightened alert and maintain readiness to respond to any contingency involving Indian seafarers or Indian maritime interests," the release said.

The Directorate General of Shipping has advised Indian seafarers serving on both Indian and foreign-flagged vessels transiting conflict-affected waters to maintain the highest levels of caution and vigilance. Vessel operators, ship managers and shipping companies have also been asked to strictly follow maritime security protocols and closely monitor official advisories.

Three Indian Seafarers Killed in Missile Attack on MT Settebello

The heightened alert follows a missile strike on MT Settebello (IMO 9162916), a Palau-flagged medium-range tanker carrying 28 crew members, including 24 Indians. The vessel was reportedly attacked on June 10 while sailing around 20 nautical miles northeast of Sohar, Oman.

According to information received from the Maritime Security Centre of Oman and subsequent reports from the vessel's management, three Indian crew members lost their lives in the attack.

The government said it immediately coordinated with relevant authorities, ship owners and recruitment agencies to assist those affected. The bodies of the three missing seafarers have since been located and identified, while all remaining crew members were rescued safely.

Efforts are now being expedited to bring the rescued sailors back to India and ensure the dignified repatriation of the mortal remains of the deceased.

Expressing grief over the tragedy, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal said, "It is deeply unfortunate to learn of the tragic incident aboard the Palau-flagged MT Settebello. Sadly, three Indian seafarers initially reported missing are now confirmed dead after bodies have been located and identified. The safety of Indian citizens, protection of Indian maritime interests and uninterrupted movement of legitimate cargo remain our highest priorities. The Government of India is keeping a close watch on developments and will take all necessary measures to safeguard the lives of Indian seafarers and uphold the nation's interests."

Government Assures Support for Families, Welfare Assistance Released

Reiterating the government's commitment to seafarers' welfare, Sonowal said, "The Government is closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Gulf region and remains fully committed to the safety, security and welfare of every Indian seafarer. All relevant ministries, agencies and missions abroad are working in close coordination to ensure timely support and assistance whenever required."

The Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS), operating under the Directorate General of Shipping, has been directed to provide all eligible support measures to affected families. As per existing protocol, financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh is being released to the families of each deceased seafarer.

Calling the incident a major loss for India's maritime community, Sonowal added, "This is a profound loss to our maritime family. The Modi Govt stands firmly with the bereaved during this difficult hour and is fully committed to supporting the next of kin. I have directed officials to ensure immediate repatriation of the rescued crew members and swift return of the mortal remains of the deceased for their final rites."

The Directorate General of Shipping and concerned Recruitment and Placement Service License (RPSL) agencies remain in constant contact with the families of the affected sailors. Authorities are coordinating all arrangements related to repatriation, transportation of mortal remains and welfare assistance.

The government reiterated that it stands firmly with Indian seafarers and their families and will continue taking all necessary measures to ensure their safety, security and well-being amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty in the region.

(With inputs from ANI)