- Indian tanker with 34 crew stranded near Strait of Hormuz amid Iran-US-Israel tensions
- Ship carrying LPG for 3.6 million domestic cylinders halted due to maritime restrictions
- Captain reports missiles and drones flying overhead in conflict zone
- Family and crew urge Indian Navy for safe escort back to India
GG News Bureau
New Delhi, 14th March: An Indian LPG tanker carrying 34 crew members has been stranded for several days near the Strait of Hormuz as escalating tensions involving Iran, the United States and Israel disrupt maritime traffic in the region.
The vessel, commanded by Captain Virendra Vishwakarma, is carrying enough liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to fill around 3.6 million domestic gas cylinders. The ship had departed from Mina Al Ahmadi port in Kuwait and was headed for Deendayal Port in Kandla, Gujarat.
However, restrictions imposed on maritime movement in the region since February 28 have forced the tanker to halt its journey. The vessel is currently anchored near Mina Saqr port in the United Arab Emirates, awaiting clearance to proceed through the strategic shipping corridor.
In a message sent from the ship, Captain Vishwakarma described the tense situation around the vessel as missiles and drones continue to pass through the skies amid the ongoing conflict.
“Missiles and drones are flying directly over us. Sirens are blaring everywhere, and every moment feels as though something terrible could happen. We are simply waiting for the Indian Navy’s protective escort so that we may return safely to our homeland,” the captain said.
Back in Dahisar in Mumbai, the captain’s family is living in constant anxiety. His wife Nilpa Vishwakarma said she has not slept for several nights as she worries about the safety of her husband and the crew. Their children, 10-year-old Vedansh and 12-year-old Nirvi, are also awaiting their father’s return.
Due to poor internet connectivity at sea, the crew has been unable to maintain regular contact with their families, further increasing concern among relatives.
The ship is currently reported to have around 60 days of food supplies remaining onboard.
Officials said the shipping company GESCO is in constant contact with relevant authorities and the Indian Navy regarding the situation. Efforts are underway to ensure the safety of the crew and facilitate the vessel’s safe passage.
For now, the captain and his family have made a direct appeal for Indian Navy intervention to escort the ship through the volatile waters and ensure the safe return of the crew to India.
