Maintain ‘constant vigilance’: DG delivers cargo to Indian sailors in West Asia

NEW DELHI: Taking note of the recent unprecedented events, Indian maritime regulator DG Shipping has advised all Indian seafarers on board vessels in the Persian Gulf, Strait of Hormuz, Gulf of Oman and adjacent waters to “exercise continuous vigilance and enhance situational awareness”.The advisory mentioned that when an oil tanker was engulfed in flames, two sailors were trapped in the tanker’s accommodation area. The only escape route was through the forward porthole, “but it appears there may not be sufficient supplies or equipment to break the glass panels.”“This is a comprehensive mid-term review… aimed at preparing mariners to respond effectively to a variety of emergencies, including understanding escape routes and other safety measures. It is not specifically related to… MT Sky Light,” an official said.The MT Sky Light was attacked on March 1 and its chief engineer was evacuated to the hospital while two crew members, captain Ashish Kumar and wiper Dalip, are still missing.