Kamal Ghorui
India has enhanced its safety protocols for its seafarers and stabilise maritime trade operations amid the ongoing Middle East tensions. In a directive, the Directorate General of Shipping issued Circular 21 of 2026, setting out precautionary measures for Indian seafarers operating in and around Iranian waters. The advisory calls on those currently ashore to stay indoors, steer clear of sensitive areas, and coordinate any movement with the Embassy of India. Seafarers onboard vessels have been asked to remain onboard and avoid non-essential visits to shore.The circular emphasises the need for heightened vigilance, urging personnel to track official updates closely and remain in constant touch with company representatives as well as authorities. It also provides emergency contact details to enable immediate assistance, with the focus firmly on ensuring safety during the ongoing situation.At the same time, the directorate has rolled out a series of steps aimed at keeping maritime trade running smoothly despite the disruptions. These measures include ensuring that port concessions are directly passed on to exporters, improving transparency around freight charges and war risk premiums, and mandating proper documentation for any additional costs levied.To address concerns raised by stakeholders, a more robust grievance redressal system with centralised tracking has been introduced, alongside stronger coordination between stakeholders to expedite issue resolution. Efforts are also underway to ease cargo movement, particularly for shipments that have been delayed or diverted, while maintaining operational continuity and safeguarding exporter interests.Meanwhile, an LPG carrier named Green Asha arrived at India’s busiest container port. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) on Thursday received the India-flagged vessel carrying 15,400 tonnes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), which had crossed the Strait of Hormuz despite the ongoing conflict involving Iran, the United States and Israel.“Today, JNPA proudly welcomed Green Asha—an India-flagged LPG vessel that has successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, and has moored at JNPA’s liquid berth operated by BPCL-IOCL,” the port authority said in a release.JNPA called the arrival a milestone, noting that this is the first such vessel to reach the port since the war began. The ship brought 15,400 tonnes of LPG.“The vessel, its cargo, and every member of the crew are all safe and secure. This arrival highlights the ability of maritime operations to function amid complex geopolitical conditions while ensuring the steady supply of essential LPG to the nation,” the statement said.The port, also known as JNPT or Nhava Sheva in Navi Mumbai, plays a key role in India’s energy supply chain, handling large volumes of container and liquid cargo. However, the West Asia conflict has impacted energy supplies passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
