The review meeting came after the attacks on two vessels– MT Al Bahiyah and MT Mombasa — in the Strait of Hormuz
In the wake of escalating maritime tensions in West Asia, the Centre has ordered real-time monitoring of Indian seafarers operating in the Gulf region, stepping up efforts to safeguard thousands of crew members amid growing security threats.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has directed the Directorate General of Shipping to establish a comprehensive, vessel-by-vessel monitoring system covering Indian seafarers regardless of the flag under which their ships are sailing. The move comes days after missile attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz left one Indian sailor dead and several others injured.
As part of the initiative, authorities will maintain a live operational dashboard tracking critical information, including vessel location, ownership, cargo details, crew strength, voyage plans, security threats, welfare conditions and the availability of food, fuel, medicines and communication facilities. The system is designed to enable faster intervention in the event of an emergency.
The Centre has also instructed shipping companies, manning agencies and maritime authorities to remain in constant coordination and immediately report any incident involving Indian crew members. Dedicated emergency communication channels will remain operational round the clock to assist seafarers and their families.
Officials said the enhanced surveillance is part of a broader “Seafarer-First” strategy aimed at protecting Indian nationals working in conflict-affected waters. The initiative also seeks to improve coordination between government agencies and ensure swift decision-making as the security situation in the Gulf evolves.
The latest measures underscore New Delhi’s growing concern over the safety of Indian maritime personnel as instability around the Strait of Hormuz continues to disrupt commercial shipping and raise risks for vessels transiting one of the world’s busiest energy corridors.
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