The Indian government has ordered its agencies to be ready to respond to any contingency involving Indian seafarers or maritime interests, the shipping ministry said, following three US attacks on Indian-crewed tankers this week, including one that killed three sailors.
The government is closely coordinating with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Navy, maritime administrations of friendly countries, shipping companies and other relevant stakeholders to ensure timely support and assistance to Indian seafarers, the ministry said in a statement on Thursday.
"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 statement said.
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Following heightened tensions in the Gulf, the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), through the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), is maintaining sustained surveillance of developments in and around the Strait of Hormuz, the Gulf of Oman and adjoining maritime areas.
Recognising the strategic importance of these international shipping lanes to global trade and energy security, Indian 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.
Meanwhile, the DGS advised all Indian seafarers serving onboard Indian and foreign-flagged vessels transiting through conflict-affected waters to exercise the "highest degree of caution and vigilance". It also advised vessel operators, ship managers and shipping companies to adhere strictly to prevailing maritime security protocols, maintain enhanced situational awareness and continuously monitor government notifications and advisories from competent international authorities.
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"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," said Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), Sarbananda Sonowal.
The heightened vigilance follows an incident where US military struck a Palau-flagged Medium Range Tanker MT Settebello, killing three Indian seafarers onboard, while 24 others were rescued.
"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," Sonawal said, adding that the safety of Indian citizens, protection of Indian maritime interests and uninterrupted movement of legitimate cargo continue to be the government's highest priorities.
