DGS withdraws restrictions on movement of Indian ships through Strait of Hormuz
Kolkata, June 27
The Directorate General of Shipping has withdrawn restrictions on Indian ships moving across the Strait of Hormuz, while instructing masters and crews to remain vigilant and strictly follow prescribed security protocols.
"The International Maritime Organization (IMO), in close coordination with Coastal States and industry partners, has initiated measures for the evacuation of stranded seafarers through a coordinated mechanism involving IMO, UKMTO, MICA Center, and Coastal States. The Directorate General of Shipping is closely monitoring the evolving situation in coordination with the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Navy, Indian Missions abroad and other concerned stakeholders to ensure the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers," the DGS said in a circular issued on June 26.
"The Directorate clarifies that there is no restriction for Indian ship owners/managers/RPSL agencies to continue the operation of ships and deployment of Indian seafarers in and out of the Persian Gulf region by following the security protocols of the Coastal States and security agencies," the circular stated.
The DGS has, however, advised all Indian seafarers, masters, ship owners, ship managers, operators, RPSL companies and other maritime stakeholders to maintain caution while operating in the Persian Gulf region.
"Masters of vessels operating in or transiting through the Gulf region, including the Strait of Hormuz and adjoining waters, are advised to maintain heightened security awareness, closely monitor navigational warnings and other warnings or instructions received from security agencies, and implement all applicable ship security measures and company security procedures," the circular said.
The DGS has also instructed all stakeholders to continuously monitor advisories issued by it, the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions abroad and other competent authorities, and to promptly report any incident involving Indian seafarers to the DG Communication Centre and Crew Branch.
All stakeholders have also been strongly advised to verify the authenticity of any news reports, videos or other material relating to security incidents onboard ships through official government sources, and to avoid circulating unverified news, social media posts or fake videos.
The DGS said these measures had been put in place to protect the interests and welfare of Indian seafarers.
— IANS
Reader Comments
While lifting restrictions is welcome for trade, I hope the government is also working behind the scenes to ensure a long-term solution. The Strait of Hormuz is a chokepoint and any instability affects our EXIM trade and fuel prices directly. Need better diplomatic engagement with Iran and Gulf nations.
As an Indian in the Gulf, this is reassuring. Many seafarers are from Kerala and Tamil Nadu families who depend on this work. The vigilance guidelines are sensible—safety can't be compromised. Hope the Indian Navy continues its escort operations if needed.
Respectfully, I think the DGS should have been more transparent about WHY the restrictions were imposed in the first place. Was there a specific threat? We deserve to know what changed. But overall, happy our seafarers can get back to work safely.
This is a classic example of balancing trade and security. The Indian government's multi-agency coordination (MEA, Navy, Shipping) is commendable. As an ex-sailor, I know how stressful it is for families when such advisories come. Stay safe, fellow mariners! 🚢
Good move. Indian seafarers are highly skilled and their contribution to the economy is immense. The emphasis on following security protocols and verifying news is spot on—can't have panic caused by fake videos. Kudos to DGS for being measured.
R