Govt monitors Gulf seafarers after Iran hits tanker with Indian crew near Oman

India is closely monitoring the safety of its seafarers in the Persian Gulf after a Togo-flagged chemical tanker with Indian crew onboard was intercepted by Iranian forces, with warning shots fired during the encounter.

The development comes amid rising tensions in West Asia, with authorities keeping a close watch on maritime activity in the region.

According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, the incident involving the chemical tanker MT Ceylon was reported on April 25 near the Oman Outer Port Limit.

Director Mandeep Singh Randhawa said the vessel was moving along with other ships when it was intercepted by the Iranian Coast Guard.

“They fired warning shots. All Indian personnel are safe,” he said during a media briefing.

INDIAN CREW SAFE, MONITORING INTENSIFIES

Officials said Indian vessels and crew in the Persian Gulf are under constant monitoring.

“All Indian vessels and crew currently in the Persian Gulf are being closely monitored. All seafarers in the region remain safe,” Randhawa said.

Authorities added that there has been no report of any incident involving Indian-flagged vessels in the last 24 hours.

CONTROL ROOM ACTIVE, EVACUATIONS UNDER WAY

The Directorate General of Shipping has activated a control room to track developments and respond to concerns.

Officials said 7,780 calls and 16,650 emails have been handled so far, with 25 calls and 140 emails received in the last 24 hours alone.

Through coordinated efforts, more than 2,770 Indian ships have been secured for safe return, including 12 vessels brought back from different parts of the Gulf in the past day.

PORT OPERATIONS NORMAL

Despite the heightened tensions, authorities said port operations across India remain unaffected.

“All Indian ports are operating normally and there is no sign of congestion,” Randhawa said.

The situation continues to be monitored as maritime stakeholders and security agencies remain in touch to ensure the safety of Indian sailors navigating the volatile region.

- Ends