As the conflict in West Asia extends into its 25th day, increasing alarm is being raised regarding the safety of Indian sailors trapped in the region. The Forward Seamen’s Union of India has issued a warning about the deteriorating living conditions aboard vessels and the rising emotional strain among crew members. Manoj Yadav, the general secretary of the union, reported that approximately 23,000 Indian seafarers are currently in the conflict zone. Many are serving on foreign-flagged vessels, including those registered in Iran or owned by Iranian companies.

Describing Life Onboard as ‘Jail-like’

Yadav characterized the situation onboard as severely restrictive and distressing. He stated that for the last 25 days, seafarers have been confined to their accommodations without the freedom to go outside. “The situation is akin to being in jail,” he remarked. According to him, crew members are contending with shortages of fuel, potable water, and essential supplies, in addition to facing communication challenges caused by internet outages and signal interference. “They are witnessing ongoing bombings in nearby areas where their vessels are anchored, and many cannot even reach out to their families,” he added.

Presence in High-Risk Waters

A significant number of Indian sailors are stationed in high-risk waters near Iranian ports, including Bandar Abbas, Lavan Island, and Sirri Island. Yadav mentioned that he is personally in contact with about 150 seafarers on 14 vessels operating in these waters, and noted that many are unable to sleep due to the constant threat of bombing. The atmosphere is especially tense around the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial shipping channel accounting for nearly 20% of the world’s oil transportation. Despite UN recommendations advising against operations in high-risk zones, some employers are still directing vessels to navigate through the strait for commercial gains.

Impacts of Ongoing Threats

According to Yadav, the seafarers are being compelled to traverse the Strait of Hormuz, making them vulnerable targets amid ongoing conflicts. He emphasized that personnel in the merchant navy are typically unprepared to handle situations akin to warfare, with constant missile threats adversely affecting their mental well-being. “The missile attacks worsen their state of mind, especially since they are unable to communicate with their families,” he explained.

Challenges in Tracking and Evacuation

Yadav highlighted that many Indian seafarers work on non-Indian flagged vessels, complicating monitoring and rescue operations. These ships are either foreign-flagged or connected to Iranian ownership, presenting significant obstacles in tracking their status and implementing evacuation procedures. The union has previously reached out to Prime Minister Narendra Modi twice to address the hazards faced by these sailors, and it welcomed his acknowledgment of the matter during discussions in the Lok Sabha.

Government Response and Calls for Evacuation

In his address, Prime Minister Modi recognized the substantial number of Indian crew members on commercial ships in affected areas, reflecting India’s heightened concern due to its trade links and reliance on vital maritime routes such as the Strait of Hormuz. The government has activated 247 control rooms and emergency helplines, along with diplomatic outreach initiatives, to prioritize the safety of Indian nationals in the region. Notably, over 375,000 Indians have been repatriated since the conflict began.

Evacuation History and Future Concerns

Yadav recalled previous evacuation efforts from conflict-affected countries such as Iraq and Kuwait, suggesting that similar measures may soon be necessary. He also indicated that Iran, having ratified international maritime laws, has a responsibility to protect foreign mariners within its territorial waters. Nevertheless, as the conflict shows few signs of resolution, the seafarers remain increasingly exposed to mounting risks at sea, with uncertainty persisting day by day.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share