An Indian seafarer was killed after a missile struck a vessel in Oman, amid the ongoing Iran-Israel hostilities, NDTV reported. The deceased was identified as Dalip from Khinvtana village, located in Rajasthan's Nagaur.
The ship, managed by S.K.S. Krishi Marine Services Pvt. was hit at a port in Oman on Sunday at around 7:00 a.m. Another crew member, Pilot Ashish Kumar, has been reported missing following the strike.
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As many as 37 Indian-flagged ships with over 1,000 seafarers are stuck in the Persian Gulf, the Gulf of Oman and the adjoining sea areas as the key shipping route through the Strait of Hormuz is closed due to the ongoing military actions involving the United States, Israel and Iran, news agency PTI reported. While some ships are carrying crude oil and LNG to Indian ports, others are on the way to bring petroleum products from the Gulf nations.
The Directorate General of Shipping is in regular touch with the shipping companies and is closely monitoring the situation. At least three Indian seafarers on board foreign-flagged vessels were killed, and one was injured in West Asia due to the current conflict.
A dedicated quick response team has been set up by the Shipping Ministry to enable timely coordination among authorities, ensure immediate response to emerging situations and facilitate prompt assistance to Indian seafarers and their families.
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Shipping companies and Recruitment and Placement Service Licensees (RPSLs) have been advised to exercise caution in crew deployment and maintain regular communication with seafarers and their families. Helpline numbers have also been activated and shared with the families of the seafarers through RPSLs.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways also issued an advisory for maritime operators to assess voyage-specific risks following the disruptions of the shipping route and closure of the Strait of Hormuz by Iran.
"In view of the evolving security situation in the Persian Gulf region, the Directorate General of Shipping has constituted a dedicated 24×7 Quick Response Team to ensure timely assistance, coordination, and welfare support for Indian seafarers. The team will facilitate effective communication and crisis response by working closely with shipping companies, RPSL entities, Indian missions abroad, and the families of seafarers," the ministry said on social media.
The ministry added that they are actively engaged in ensuring the safety and well-being of Indian seafarers during this period, maintaining close coordination with all stakeholders to provide necessary support, assistance, and evacuation facilitation if required.
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