Days after three Indian sailors were killed on board the ship MT Settebello following a US military strike off the coast of Oman, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has advised maritime recruitment and staffing agencies to restrict the deployment of Indian sailors in conflict areas until further orders.In a circular, the shipping regulator also directed ships operating in or passing through the Gulf region, including the Strait of Hormuz and adjacent waters, to maintain heightened security vigil amid the escalating risks in the region, news agency PTI reported.“This Directorate further reiterates that all RPSLs and shipping companies (maritime recruitment and recruitment agencies) are advised to restrict deployment or dispatch of Indian seafarers to conflict areas until further orders.
However, companies may perform crew changes in emergency situations with the consent of the crew members.”The circular noted that recent developments in the Gulf region, especially around the Strait of Hormuz and the Gulf of Oman, have led to multiple security incidents involving commercial ships carrying Indian sailors.She added that incidents involving the MT Marivex, MT Settebello and MV Jalveer in recent days highlighted the increasing risks faced by commercial vessels operating in the region.
DGS advised captains of ships operating in or passing through the area to maintain high security awareness, closely monitor warnings and navigational advisories issued by security agencies, and implement all applicable ship security measures and company security procedures.The regulatory body said it 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 relevant stakeholders to ensure the safety and well-being of Indian seafarers.The circular also requested maritime companies and concerned authorities to exercise the highest levels of vigilance and caution while working in conflict areas.This warning comes after India on Wednesday summoned the US Charge d’Affaires to strongly protest a US military attack on a commercial ship off the coast of Oman that led to the loss of three of the 24 Indian crew members.In a statement on Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack.“We condemn the attack on the merchant ship Setibillo off the coast of Oman earlier today. Of the 24 Indian crew on board, 21 Indians have been rescued so far, and three Indians are reported missing,” she said.The incident came amid renewed hostilities between Iran and Israel.