New Delhi, March 16 (NationPress) The Directorate General of Shipping has successfully orchestrated the safe return of 286 Indian seafarers from the Gulf region, with 33 repatriations occurring in just the past 48 hours, according to a government announcement made on Monday.

Since the establishment of the DG Shipping Control Room, there have been approximately 3,030 phone inquiries and 5,497 emails received from seafarers, their relatives, and maritime stakeholders seeking assistance. This includes over 310 phone calls and 597 emails within the last two days, as reported by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

The statement elaborated that major ports across the nation are actively monitoring vessel movements and cargo operations, providing essential support to shipping lines and cargo stakeholders. This includes concessions on anchorage, berth hire, and storage fees. The ports are also coordinating with Customs and other relevant parties to streamline cargo operations.

Importantly, all Indian seafarers in the region are confirmed to be safe, with no reported incidents involving Indian seafarers over the last 24 hours.

Currently, there are 22 Indian-flagged vessels carrying 611 seafarers situated in the western Persian Gulf region. The Directorate General of Shipping continues to keep a close watch on the situation in collaboration with ship owners, RPSL agencies, and Indian Missions, as stated by the ministry.

Additionally, the ministry has shared that JNPA is providing temporary transshipment storage for containers destined for the Middle East, alongside offering a 100% rebate on ground rent and dwell time charges, as well as approximately 80% off on reefer container plug-in charges for up to 15 days for containers originating from JNPA.

“There is currently no congestion at any major port, and the number of export-bound containers at JNPA has decreased from around 5,600 to approximately 3,900. Ports are also ensuring safe anchorage for loaded vessels heading to the Gulf that are presently unable to transit,” the statement further noted.

To address operational challenges, an inter-ministerial group has been established under the Directorate General of Shipping, comprising members from Customs, ports, and other stakeholders.

The Ministry continues to collaborate with the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions, shipping companies, and maritime stakeholders to uphold the safety and welfare of Indian seafarers while ensuring the uninterrupted flow of maritime trade and port operations.