Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 12: The Government of India on Sunday confirmed that all Indian seafarers in the Gulf and West Asia region remain safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged vessels reported in the past 24 hours.
The update was issued by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways through the Directorate General of Shipping, which also reported the continued safe repatriation of Indian maritime personnel from affected regions.
So far, more than 2,084 Indian seafarers have been brought back safely, including 75 in the last 24 hours alone from various parts of the Gulf. Authorities said port operations across India remain stable, with no congestion or disruption reported.
The Shipping Control Room, which is operating 24x7, has handled over 6,000 calls and nearly 12,800 emails since activation, reflecting ongoing coordination efforts between maritime agencies and Indian missions abroad.
The government said it is working closely with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian embassies, and maritime stakeholders to ensure the safety and welfare of Indian citizens and the smooth functioning of shipping operations.
Indian missions across the Gulf and West Asia remain in constant contact with the Indian diaspora, issuing advisories and maintaining round-the-clock helplines. Officials are also engaging with community organisations, companies, and professional groups to provide assistance wherever needed.
Air travel from the region to India continues, though with operational limitations due to evolving airspace conditions. Authorities noted that nearly 8.97 lakh passengers have travelled from the region to India since late February.
Flights from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar continue on a limited basis, depending on airspace availability. In Qatar, operations remain partially open, while airlines are adjusting schedules based on safety and regulatory conditions.
Due to ongoing restrictions, Iranian and Israeli airspace remains closed. Indian nationals in those regions are being assisted in returning home via alternative routes through Armenia, Azerbaijan, Jordan, and Egypt, as coordinated by Indian missions.
Officials emphasized that the situation is being closely monitored and that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the safety of Indian citizens abroad and the continuity of maritime and travel operations.