Amidst rising tensions between Iran and Israel, the Director General of Shipping issued an urgent advisory to seafarers, shipowners and employers about travel and operations involving Iranian Ports.
The advisory quotes an announcement from the External Affairs Ministry and focuses on the need for caution and reassessment of maritime activities in the region due to the risky situation.
It advises seafarers to avoid signing on and off from Iranian Ports. DG Shipping stated that the safety of seafarers is the topmost priority and has urged the employers to take immediate action.
This would imply that employers reschedule crew change processes to other ports to avoid unforeseen consequences and safeguard life and property. The advisory stated that any prior commitments about crew changes in Iran should be postponed.
The advisory comes amid a rapidly changing security situation that could pose major risks to seafarers and ships operating in or near Iranian waters.
DG Shipping is urging seafarers in Iranian Ports or navigating nearby waters to restrict their movement and avoid travel within the nation.
They are advised to keep a tab on local conditions and be in touch with the Indian High Commission in Iran.
The heightened vigilance comes amidst the unpredictable nature of the conflict, which could impact maritime operations and personnel safety.
The advisory is also for ship owners, managers, and agents. It urges them to choose alternative ports for loading and unloading and avoid berthing at Iranian ports.
Secondly, it also encourages vessel operators to reschedule operations until the situation becomes stable.
As an additional measure, DG Shipping has called on vessel owners, operators and managers to boost security onboard their vessels.
It also calls upon the concerned parties to maintain a state of readiness and ensure all security equipment remains operational. It advises conducting regular safety drills so the crew is ready to face any security threats.
References: DG Shipping, Logistics Insider
DG Shipping Issues Advisory For Seafarers Regarding Heightening Israel-Iran Tensions appeared first on Marine Insight – The Maritime Industry Guide
Source: Maritime Shipping News