15 Indian vessels stranded in Hormuz (Img: Internet)
New Delhi: The Indian government on Monday said that 15 Indian-flagged and Indian-owned vessels remain in the Strait of Hormuz, even as tensions escalate following a proposed naval blockade by the United States. Authorities have initiated coordinated efforts to ensure the safe return of these vessels and their crew.
The development comes after Donald Trump announced plans for a blockade in the strategically vital waterway, following the collapse of ceasefire talks between the US and Iran in Pakistan.
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At an inter-ministerial briefing, Mukesh Mangal, Additional Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, confirmed that the Shipping Ministry is working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to manage the situation.
Officials said the vessels will be guided back as soon as it is deemed safe for them to exit the region. The Strait of Hormuz, a key global oil transit route, has seen heightened military activity, raising concerns over the safety of commercial shipping.
Despite the tense environment, authorities noted that there have been no reported incidents involving Indian vessels in the past 24 hours.
In a positive development, the Indian-flagged LPG carrier ‘Jag Vikram’ is expected to arrive at Kandla port in Gujarat on April 14. The vessel, carrying 20,400 metric tonnes of LPG, had successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz on April 11.
The ship has 24 crew members on board and is among the first Indian vessels to safely navigate the route following the announcement of a temporary 14-day ceasefire between the US and Iran.
Officials described its transit as a significant step, indicating cautious movement toward restoring maritime operations in the region.
The government also highlighted its ongoing efforts to ensure the safety of Indian seafarers. According to officials, more than 2,177 Indian crew members have been safely repatriated so far, including 93 in the last 24 hours alone.
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Authorities continue to maintain close communication with vessels operating in the Gulf region, while monitoring developments related to the blockade.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most critical shipping corridors, handling a substantial portion of global energy supplies. Any disruption in the region has far-reaching implications for international trade and energy markets.
India’s swift response underscores its focus on safeguarding maritime assets and ensuring the well-being of its nationals amid rising geopolitical tensions.
