Padmesh Prabhune –
In the wake of the political turbulence after the collapse of erstwhile Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government in Bangladesh, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) following an advisory from the Ministry of External Affairs has in turn issued an advisory for seafarers, RPS agents, employers/vessel-owners to avoid travel to Bangladesh till further notice.
The DG Shipping in its advisory mentions that due to the ongoing recent political developments and current situation prevailing in neighbouring Bangladesh, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India has issued an advisory strongly recommending that Indian nationals including seafarers, their employers, and ship owners who may be planning travel or indulge and associate in operations involving ports in Bangladesh shall avoid traveling to Bangladesh until further notice.
It categorically states: “In light of the current unrest, seafarers are advised not to sign on or off from any ports in Bangladesh as the safety and security of our seafarers are of paramount interest.”
Following the advisory employers are strongly encouraged to reschedule crew change processes to alternative ports in order to avoid any unforeseen consequences and safeguard their life and property.
Any prior commitments and obligations with respect to crew changes in Bangladesh should be immediately re-evaluated and postponed forthwith.
For the seafarers currently stationed in Bangladesh, it said that it is crucial for seafarers to restrict movements and avoid unnecessary travel. They need to be vigilant and informed about local conditions. Further, seafarers should ensure that they remain in contact with the High Commission of India in Dhaka keeping it informed at all times of their movements.
Given the unpredictable situation, vessel-owners and vessel agents are also advised to avoid berthing vessels at ports in Bangladesh as far as possible and practicable, to prevent any potential risks or uncertainties that could affect the safety and integrity of the vessel and its crew on board.
Also, they are encouraged to consider alternative ports for loading/ discharging operations and may also consider to reschedule the same till the situation ceases to exist to other ports or regions that are currently stable and safe for maritime activities.
DGS mentions categorically to strictly adhere to this advisory so as to collectively ensure the safety and well-being of our seafarers and the seamless operation of maritime activities during this period of the said civil unrest in Bangladesh.
To Do List
Vessel-owners, vessel managers and all concerned parties are further advised to ensure all crew members are briefed about the current advisory.
Enhance security measures on board to prevent any unforeseen incidents including but not limited to maintaining a higher state of readiness, ensuring all security equipment is operational and safety drills be conducted thereof.
Regularly check for updates from the High Commission of India in Dhaka and other relevant authorities to remain appraised of the situation at all times.
Always have emergency contact numbers readily available, ensuring all crew members are aware of it.
In case any further assistance is required, contact the High Commission of India in Dhaka at these emergency numbers for any assistance: +8801958383679,+8801958383680 and +8801937400591.
Seafarers, NoK, RPS agents and vessel-owners and other concerned entities involved may contact the Directorate nodal officials / DG Comm in case of any queries or exigencies as per the contact details available in following link:
(https://dgshipping.gov.in/writereaddata/News/202405100132574984828ContactPointsforseafarers.pdf)
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