The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has issued an update on the status of Indian vessels amid tensions in the Middle East and Iran’s blockage at the Strait of Hormuz. According to the ministry, maritime operations related to Indian cargo vessels remain stable and there has been no delay in the discharge of cargo so far. Authorities also confirmed that no incidents have been reported in the last 24 hours, and all seafarers are safe.
The ministry said the Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JLN Port) in Navi Mumbai is providing temporary storage facilities for cargo in view of the situation. To support cargo movement, the port has announced a 100 per cent waiver on storage charges for 15 days for cargo originating from the port.
Notably, Indian vessel Shivalik reached the country by safely crossing the Strait of Hormuz.
Another vessel, Jag Laadki, which sailed from the United Arab Emirates carrying crude oil, is safely on course to India and is expected to arrive tomorrow at the Mundra Port. Officials also said 22 cargo carriers are currently positioned west of the Strait of Hormuz.
Meanwhile, the Directorate General of Shipping has facilitated the repatriation of 33 seafarers in the past 25 hours, as authorities continue to closely monitor the evolving situation in the region.
India evacuates more than 550 people
India has successfully evacuated over 550 of its citizens from Iran via a land route through Armenia, amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. Expressing his gratitude, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar thanked the Armenian government for facilitating the safe passage of Indian nationals across the border.
The evacuation comes in response to the ongoing security concerns in Iran. The Indian government has advised its citizens in the country to head toward neighboring Armenia and Azerbaijan, from where arrangements are being made for their return to India.
