The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has issued a safety advisory urging Indian seafarers and maritime stakeholders to remain vigilant and exercise utmost caution while operating in or navigating through Iranian waters and nearby regions, in view of escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
According to the circular, issued in response to recent developments and guidance from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Embassy of India in Tehran, Indian crew members currently in Iran or transiting through critical sea routes such as the Strait of Hormuz should strictly follow official advisories and safety protocols. Stakeholders have also been advised not to deploy or send Indian seafarers to Iran until further notice.
The advisory details that all Indian-flagged vessels — as well as Indian seafarers serving on foreign-flagged ships calling at Iranian ports or passing through adjacent waters — must maintain heightened situational awareness and adhere to safety instructions issued by local authorities. Maritime companies, RPSL agencies, trade unions, and seafarers’ groups have been asked to submit crew details for those currently in or near Iranian waters to the appropriate regulatory branch for ongoing coordination.
The move comes as tensions surge in the region following recent military exchanges and security alerts, raising concerns about navigational safety and operational risks for international shipping lanes.