The government on Wednesday said no incident involving Indian ships or seafarers has been reported in the past 24 hours, even as vessels continue to operate in the Persian Gulf amid global uncertainties.
At a joint inter-ministerial briefing, Special Secretary in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Rajesh Kumar Sinha said 20 Indian-flagged vessels with around 540 Indian seafarers are currently in the Persian Gulf and remain safe. He added that private shipping companies are maintaining continuous communication with crews.
Sinha said authorities handled nearly 200 telephone calls and 500 emails over the last 24 hours, with responses being provided promptly. During the same period, 50 Indian seafarers were repatriated and brought back to India.
He also noted that port operations across the country remain normal, with no congestion reported.
Highlighting measures to support trade, Sinha said that while steps had already been taken at major ports such as Jawaharlal Nehru Port, Kandla Port, Visakhapatnam Port, and V.O. Chidambaranar Port, similar relief has now been extended at non-major ports.
At Mundra Port, authorities have announced 15 days of free storage for Middle East-bound export containers, an 80 per cent reduction in reefer plug-in charges, and a waiver of lift-on, lift-off and transportation charges. Additionally, 15 days of free storage has been provided for back-to-town containers.
The ministry said it is closely monitoring shipping movements, port operations, and the safety and welfare of seafarers, while ensuring uninterrupted maritime trade.
-ANI
