Two Indian LPG Carriers Safely Transit Gulf as Government Steps Up Seafarer Support

New Delhi, March 2026 : Two Indian LPG carriers — BW TYR and BW ELM — carrying a combined cargo of around 94,000 metric tonnes have safely navigated through the Gulf region and are now heading towards Indian ports, according to an official statement.

The vessel BW TYR is expected to arrive in Mumbai on March 31, while BW ELM is en route to New Mangalore and is scheduled to reach on April 1. The safe passage of these vessels comes amid heightened vigilance in the region due to ongoing geopolitical tensions.

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways confirmed that all necessary measures have been implemented to ensure the safety and security of Indian vessels and seafarers operating in the Gulf. It also stated that all Indian seafarers in the region are safe, with no incidents involving Indian-flagged ships reported in the past 24 hours.

At present, 18 Indian-flagged vessels with a total of 485 Indian seafarers are operating in the western Persian Gulf. The Directorate General of Shipping (DG Shipping), in coordination with shipowners, recruitment and placement service licence (RPSL) agencies, and Indian Missions, is closely monitoring the situation.

To manage the evolving scenario, DG Shipping has activated a 24×7 control room, which has handled 4,523 calls and 8,985 emails since its establishment. In the last 24 hours alone, 92 calls and 120 emails were received, reflecting the scale of outreach and assistance being provided.

The maritime authority has also facilitated the safe repatriation of more than 942 Indian seafarers so far, including four in the past day. This effort forms part of a broader initiative to ensure the well-being of Indian nationals working in the region.

Meanwhile, port operations across India continue without disruption. State Maritime Boards in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, and Puducherry have reported smooth functioning, with no congestion at major ports.

The government is maintaining close coordination between the Ministry of Ports and Shipping, the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Missions, and other maritime stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted operations and the safety of Indian citizens abroad.

Indian Missions in the Gulf and West Asia are actively engaging with the Indian community, issuing regular advisories and providing assistance. A dedicated control room remains operational to support Indian nationals and their families, while 24×7 helplines have been set up to address concerns.

Officials said that assistance is being extended to seafarers, students, stranded individuals, and short-term visitors, including visa, consular, and logistical support. Missions are also in constant touch with local authorities to respond swiftly to any emerging situation.

The government reiterated that it is closely monitoring developments in the Gulf and West Asia, with the safety, security, and welfare of Indian nationals remaining its highest priority.