Over 10.97 Lakh Passengers Return to India Amid West Asia Tensions; Desh Garima to Reach Mumbai Soon
Synopsis
As tensions rise in West Asia, over 10.97 lakh passengers have returned to India since February 28. The Indian tanker Desh Garima is set to arrive in Mumbai on April 22, ensuring maritime operations continue amid safety concerns.
Key Takeaways
Approximately 10.97 lakh passengers have returned to India since February 28.
The tanker Desh Garima is set to arrive in Mumbai on April 22 .
Safety concerns arose after incidents involving two Indian vessels in the Strait of Hormuz .
The Indian government is focused on maritime safety and operational continuity.
Flight operations from the UAE and other regions are ongoing.
New Delhi, April 19 (NationPress) In light of escalating tensions in West Asia, approximately 10.97 lakh passengers have made their way from the region back to India since February 28. Meanwhile, the Indian-flagged crude oil tanker Desh Garima is expected to arrive in Mumbai on April 22, as confirmed by the government on Sunday.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways is actively collaborating with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian diplomatic missions, and maritime stakeholders to guarantee the safety of seafarers and the uninterrupted flow of shipping operations.
The anticipated arrival of Desh Garima provides some reassurance; however, two other Indian vessels—VLCC Samnar Herad and bulk carrier Jag Arnav—encountered a firing incident while navigating the Strait of Hormuz in the last 24 hours.
Both ships have returned to the Persian Gulf following the incident, and thankfully, no crew injuries were reported.
In light of these events, India has expressed its concerns to Iran, summoning the Iranian Ambassador in New Delhi to meet with the Foreign Secretary.
During their discussions, India emphasized the need for ensuring the safety of merchant shipping and urged Iranian authorities to expedite the movement of vessels heading to India through the Strait.
In terms of aviation, flight operations are ongoing from countries where airspace is accessible, with services managed according to safety and operational factors.
On Sunday, around 110 flights are anticipated to operate between the UAE and India, which includes a limited number of non-scheduled commercial flights.
Flights are also being maintained from airports in Saudi Arabia and Oman, while Qatar Airways is expected to conduct 10 to 11 flights to India as Qatari airspace partially reopens.
Iran's airspace remains partially accessible for cargo and charter flights. Additionally, the Indian Embassy in Tehran has successfully facilitated the evacuation and movement of 2,378 Indian nationals via Armenia and Azerbaijan for their journey back to India, including over 1,000 Indian students and several hundred fishermen.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many passengers have returned to India since February 28?
Approximately 10.97 lakh passengers have returned to India from West Asia since February 28.
When is the tanker Desh Garima expected to arrive in Mumbai?
The Desh Garima tanker is expected to arrive safely in Mumbai on April 22 .
What incidents have occurred involving Indian vessels recently?
Two Indian vessels, VLCC Samnar Herad and Jag Arnav , reported a firing incident while transiting the Strait of Hormuz , but no injuries occurred.
What measures is the Indian government taking for maritime safety?
The Indian government, through the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways , is working with various stakeholders to ensure the safety of seafarers and continuity of shipping operations.
How many flights are expected to operate between the UAE and India?
Around 110 flights are anticipated to operate between the UAE and India on Sunday.
