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Kandla Port Braces for 22 Vessels in 72 Hours Amid Hormuz Tensions

Deendayal Port Authority in Kandla is preparing to handle 22 vessels over the next 72 hours amid a surge in traffic. Among the expected ships is the Thai-flagged Mayuree Naree, which was previously attacked in the Strait of Hormuz. This comes as a Liberia-flagged tanker successfully delivered Saudi crude to Mumbai, marking the first such passage since the Iran-US conflict escalated. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has discussed shipping safety and energy security with his Iranian counterpart.

Key Points: Kandla to Handle 22 Ships as Hormuz Shipping Safety in Focus

  • Port prepares for 22 vessels in 3 days
  • Includes ship attacked in Strait of Hormuz
  • First India-bound tanker navigates strait post-conflict
  • Jaishankar discusses shipping safety with Iran
3 min read

Deendayal Port Authority Kandla gears up to handle 22 vessels in 72 hours

Deendayal Port gears up for vessel surge, including attacked ship. India discusses maritime security with Iran amid Strait of Hormuz tensions.

"Going to handle 22 vessels in the next 72 hours. - Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla"

Kandla, March 13

Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla, has geared up to handle 22 vessels in the next three days, amid an expected surge in incoming vessels.

DPA Kandla wrote on X on Friday, "Going to handle 22 vessels in the next 72 hours."

"Deendayal Port Authority, Kandla gears up to handle the surge in incoming vessels. Systems working efficiently to accommodate reconfigured voyages and provide services to the best possible standards," the post read.

Thai flagged vessel Mayuree Naree which had come under attack in the Straits of Hormuz on March 11 is among the ships expected at the Kandla Port. Some of the vessels expected are likely to be carrying Crude to India.

On Thursday, a Liberia-flagged tanker Shenlong Suezmax carrying Saudi crude has reached Mumbai Port, becoming the first India-bound vessel to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since the Iran-US conflict beganThe tanker had loaded crude from Ras Tanura port in Saudi Arabia on March 1 and departed on March 3.

Maritime tracking data showed the vessel in the Strait of Hormuz on March 8 before it temporarily went off tracking systems.The tanker reportedly switched off its Automatic Identification System (AIS) transponder while navigating the high-risk stretch of the strait and reappeared on tracking systems on March 9. The transponder is a mandatory maritime VHF radio system that automatically broadcasts a ship's identity, position, speed, and course to nearby vessels and shore stations to prevent collisions and improve navigation.

The vessel docked at the Mumbai Port at 1 pm on Wednesday and was berthed at Jawahar Dweep at 6:06 pm. It is carrying 1,35,335 metric tonnes of crude oil, which will be supplied to refineries in Mahul, eastern Mumbai. The crude discharge process is expected to take around 36 hoursThe tanker is owned by Shenlong Shipping Ltd and managed by Dynacom Tanker Management Ltd of Athens. The ship has 29 crew members including Indian, Pakistani and Filipino nationals, and is captained by an Indian.

On Thursday, External affairs minister S Jaishankar also spoke to his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi to discuss the safety of shipping and energy security. According to the MEA the discussion focused on ensuring the safe passage of ships and maintaining stable energy supplies through the region.

"EAM and FM of Iran have had three conversations in the last few days. The last one discussed issues pertaining to safety of shipping and India's energy security. Beyond that, it would be premature for me to say anything," the MEA said.

The MEA also confirmed that around 9,000 Indian nationals, including students, seafarers, professionals, business people, and pilgrims, are currently in Iran and are being assisted amid safety concerns in the country. (ANI)

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
The part about the tanker switching off its AIS in the Strait of Hormuz is concerning. It shows the real risks our seafarers are taking to keep our energy supply flowing. Glad the captain is Indian – shows our maritime expertise. Thoughts with all the crew members.
P
Priya S
Handling 22 vessels in 72 hours is no small feat! Kudos to the port authorities and workers. This is the kind of infrastructural strength we need to become a $5 trillion economy. Hope the safety of all ships, especially after the attack on Mayuree Naree, is prioritized.
R
Rohit P
While the port's efficiency is commendable, the article highlights our continued and heavy dependence on crude imports through a volatile region. We really need to fast-track our strategic petroleum reserves and alternative energy sources. Energy security is national security.
M
Meera T
Good to see EAM Jaishankar is actively engaged with Iran on this. Diplomacy is key to keeping these sea lanes open. Also, a relief to know our officials are assisting the 9000 Indians in Iran. Stay safe everyone.
K
Karthik V
The crew includes Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino nationals. At sea, nationality takes a backseat to professionalism and brotherhood. Salute to these men and women who keep global trade moving amidst conflicts. Respect.

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