New Delhi (Rajeev Sharma): India has stepped up efforts to protect its merchant navy personnel amid the deteriorating security situation in the Gulf, issuing fresh operational guidelines for ships navigating one of the world’s most sensitive maritime corridors.
The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has directed vessels operating in the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters to adopt enhanced security protocols as regional tensions continue to rise.
Under the latest advisory, ship masters have been instructed to maintain constant surveillance, monitor all official navigational and security advisories, and ensure that every safety measure prescribed under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code is fully enforced throughout the voyage.
The maritime regulator has also advised Indian ship owners, vessel management companies and Recruitment and Placement Service Licence (RPSL) agencies to temporarily suspend the deployment of Indian seafarers on ships expected to transit the Strait of Hormuz until further instructions are issued.
The decision comes as concerns grow over the safety of commercial shipping in the Gulf, where geopolitical tensions have increased the risk of disruptions to international maritime traffic. Authorities believe the precautionary measures are necessary to minimise potential threats to Indian crew members working aboard merchant vessels.
Industry stakeholders have been asked to continuously review the evolving security environment before scheduling voyages through high-risk areas. Shipping companies have also been urged to remain in close contact with relevant maritime authorities and ensure emergency response plans are ready if the situation worsens.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, carrying a significant portion of global oil and gas exports. Any instability in the region is closely watched by governments and shipping operators due to its potential impact on international trade and energy supplies.
Officials clarified that the advisory is preventive and aimed solely at ensuring the safety of Indian seafarers. The restrictions will remain in effect until the government assesses that conditions in the Gulf have stabilised sufficiently for normal deployment to resume.
