15 Indian seafarers killed in West Asia, Black Sea conflicts in 3 months: DGMA

NEW DELHI: Conflicts in West Asia and the Black Sea have claimed the lives of 15 Indian seafarers, with two still missing, in 57 separate incidents over the past three months, India's maritime regulator said on Thursday. The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) described the current geopolitical situation as “extremely challenging” for seafarers operating in these high-risk zones.

At the National Port Security Conference in New Delhi, DGMA Shyam Jagannathan said drone and missile attacks on defenceless merchant vessels have become rampant in parts of the Black Sea. He also noted that piracy off the coast of Somalia is re-emerging, while the Houthi security threat, which accounted for more than 154 incidents in 2024, has resurfaced in the Red Sea and surrounding waters.

These conflicts have not only endangered the lives of Indian seafarers but have also significantly increased global logistics costs, Jagannathan said. The disruption of key shipping routes in the Black Sea and the Red Sea has forced vessels to take longer detours, raising fuel and insurance expenses, which ultimately affect global trade and commodity prices.

The DGMA has been on an extremely high state of alert since the end of February, following the escalation in West Asia. The regulator has strengthened coordination for rescue operations, vessel movements, and the issuance of advisories. It is also ensuring compliance with best management practices for piracy response, validation of citadel preparedness—secure rooms on ships designed to protect crew during attacks—and coordination among multiple security agencies, including the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

Following directions from Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, the DGMA has put in place a mechanism to track every Indian seafarer operating in high-risk waters. This initiative makes the administration accountable for the safety, security, and early repatriation of Indian seafarers. The tracking system will enable real-time monitoring of vessels and crew, allowing for quicker responses to emergencies.

Speaking at the conference, Sonowal said that as India's maritime footprint expands, the responsibility to secure it grows. He emphasised the need for continuous vigilance and collaboration among all stakeholders, including shipping companies, seafarer unions, and international maritime organisations, to ensure the safety of those working at sea.

Indian seafarers constitute a significant portion of the global maritime workforce, and their safety is crucial not only for their families but also for the global supply chain. The latest figures highlight the risks they face in conflict zones. The DGMA's efforts, including the new tracking mechanism, are steps towards better protection, but the volatile situations in West Asia and the Black Sea require sustained international attention and diplomatic efforts to resolve.

As the conflicts continue, the DGMA remains alert and is committed to safeguarding Indian seafarers. The regulator has urged shipping companies to strictly follow advisories and best management practices to minimise risks. The government has also been in touch with international partners to ensure the safety of Indian nationals working in these regions.