Indian Captain and 33 Crew Stuck Near Hormuz Amid Tensions, Families Appeal for Rescue

The escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran is now affecting Indian families, as an Indian tanker captain and his crew remain stranded near the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

Captain Virendra Vishwakarma, a resident of Dahisar East in Mumbai, has been stuck in the region since March 2 along with 33 crew members aboard an LPG tanker. Speaking from the vessel, Vishwakarma said the crew has been witnessing missile and drone activity almost every day and hopes the Indian Navy will escort the tanker safely back to India.

“We see missiles and drones flying overhead almost every day and hear sirens constantly. We are worried that anything could happen at any time,” he said.

Tanker carrying LPG for India

The tanker, carrying enough liquefied petroleum gas to fill around 3.6 million domestic cylinders, is currently stationed at Mina Saqr Port in Ras Al Khaimah. The vessel had earlier loaded cargo at Mina Al Ahmadi Port and was heading to Deendayal Port in Kutch district.

According to Vishwakarma, the crew currently has food supplies that could last for about 60 days. The ship’s operator, Great Eastern Shipping Company (GESCO), is coordinating with authorities to arrange safe passage. “Our company is helping us and has assured us it is in touch with the navy and the relevant ministries to ensure our safe return,” he said.

Families anxious back home

Back in Mumbai, Vishwakarma’s family says the uncertainty has caused deep anxiety. His wife, Nilpa Vishwakarma, said she has been unable to sleep for several days amid fears for her husband and the crew. “I pray every day that my husband and his crew return home safely,” she said.

She added that the family stays in touch through WhatsApp audio and video calls whenever the ship’s internet connection allows. “My two children and I speak to him whenever the internet works. Sometimes the connection drops, and then we just keep waiting to hear from him again,” she said.

With the situation in the Strait of Hormuz remaining tense, the crew continues to wait for safe passage under naval protection so the tanker and its cargo can return to Indian waters.

Iran allows Indian vessels passage

Meanwhile, Iran has allowed two LPG tankers bound for India to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by Reuters.

The development came after Iran’s ambassador to India, Mohammad Fathali, indicated that Indian vessels could receive safe passage through the crucial shipping corridor despite the ongoing regional tensions. He described India as an important partner and suggested that both countries share strategic interests in maintaining stability in the region.