Indian Navy On High Alert In Persian Gulf Amid Rising Regional Tensions

Indian Navy Warship — Representation Image

In response to the recent Iranian missile strike against Israel, the Indian government has placed the country’s Navy on high alert.

This approach intends to respond quickly to distress signals sent by vessels transiting the stormy Persian Gulf region, regardless of whether they fly the Indian flag or belong to a foreign flag carrier.

The Indian Shipping Ministry has collaborated with the Indian Navy to set up programs to rescue distressed ships and address security concerns along critical maritime routes in sensitive locations.

These regions are the Arabian Sea, the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait, the Gulf of Aden, the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, the Red Sea, the Somali Basin, and the Strait of Hormuz.

Captain Anis Joseph, the Deputy Nautical Adviser and Senior Deputy Director General of the Directorate General of Shipping confirmed the implementation of ship movement protocols in areas of high risk.

These protocols ensure that the Indian Navy responds immediately when necessary.

Joseph reassured that existing operations can handle current issues without causing significant interruptions to ship operations and Indian crew passage in the region.

The Directorate General of Shipping had already implemented an online ship reporting system for vessels operating there.

In a recent circular, the authority modified the reporting system to ensure a robust database, allowing for effective monitoring and timely reaction to maritime security problems.

Ships are advised to contact the nearest Indian Navy vessel using the appropriate communication channel in the case of an incident.

They must disclose their location, describe the incident, communicate their intended course of action, and request further guidance.

Additionally, vessels should contact relevant agencies, notably the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations, and send a first information report to the DG Communication Centre as soon as conditions allow.

Given the current security challenges, all vessels are advised to undergo comprehensive ship-shore security drills that encompass a variety of security situations, including piracy and potential threats from loitering bombs.

The alert recommends testing the Ship Security Alert System (SSAS) before travelling through the abovementioned regions.

DG Shipping emphasised the necessity of a proactive approach to security, encouraging stakeholders to improve preparedness through frequent reviews and training.

Collective alertness and commitment to security SOPs/advisories are critical for minimising major maritime security threats.

Despite the need for increased security, implementing steps to ensure continuous freight movement presents obstacles.

The rising cost of operations is projected to push overall freight costs higher.

The prolonged crisis has already resulted in a freight rate increase of more than 50% this April compared to last year.

Furthermore, as the current crisis worsens, rising insurance prices may put additional pressure on shipping companies.

Reference: Live Mint

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