New Delhi: A Dubai-bound oil tanker carrying six Indian seafarers was struck by a projectile while travelling through the Persian Gulf on Tuesday, November 10. The incident left four crew members injured, including one Indian national who sustained minor injuries. The Indian government has confirmed that it is closely monitoring the situation and remains in contact with the ship management company.
The vessel, identified as MT Fujairah Energy, is a Liberia-flagged Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC). It was reportedly travelling from Al Ruwais towards Dubai when it came under attack in the Persian Gulf. The circumstances surrounding the projectile strike and the identity of those responsible have not yet been established.
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the incident on Wednesday. He stated that four crew members had sustained injuries, including an Indian seafarer who suffered minor injuries. The injured Indian national was safely taken ashore for further medical examination and treatment.
The minister also provided an update on the remaining crew members. According to the official statement, the other 18 crew members, including five Indian seafarers, are safe and have been accounted for. This means that all six Indian nationals aboard the vessel have been accounted for, although one sustained injuries in the incident.
The government is maintaining continuous communication with the ship management company to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected seafarers. Authorities are also coordinating efforts to facilitate necessary medical assistance and monitor developments involving the vessel and its crew.
In his statement, Sonowal reiterated that the government remains vigilant and is taking the necessary steps to ensure the security and medical care of Indian seafarers. The condition of the other three injured crew members has not been detailed in the initial official update.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over maritime security in the Persian Gulf and surrounding waterways, which are vital routes for international oil shipments and commercial shipping.
The Strait of Hormuz and neighbouring maritime corridors have witnessed repeated attacks on commercial vessels in recent weeks. According to recent maritime security assessments, 37 ships were attacked in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waterways during October, marking a significant increase in security concerns.
With Indian nationals working aboard commercial vessels across the region, the latest incident has once again brought the safety of Indian seafarers into focus.
For now, the government is keeping a close watch on the situation while remaining in direct contact with the vessel's management to ensure that all affected crew members receive the necessary support.
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