Padmesh Prabhune
In the wake of the political turbulence after the collapse of erstwhile Syrian President Bashar al-Assad’s presidentship, 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 Syria till further notice.
The advisory categorically states, “In light of the current situations prevailing, seafarers are advised not to sign on or off from any ports in Syria as the safety and security of our seafarers are of paramount interest. Any prior commitments and obligations with respect to crew changes in Syria should be immediately re-evaluated and postponed forthwith.”
This advisory also applies to seafarers, their employers and ship owners who may be planning travel or indulge and associate in operations involving ports in Syria.
Following the advisory employers are strongly encouraged to reschedule crew change processes to alternative ports in order to avoid any unforeseen consequences and safeguard the life and property.
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.
Given the unpredictable situation, the vessel-owners and the vessel agents are also advised to avoid berthing vessels at ports in Syria, 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.
For those seafarers currently stationed in Syria, it is crucial to restrict movements avoiding unnecessary travel, being vigilant and stay informed about local conditions further ensuring that they remain in contact with the India Embassy in Damascus keeping themselves informed at all times.
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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.
By strictly adhering to this advisory, so as to collectively ensure the safety and well-being of our seafarers and seamless operation of maritime activities during this period of said civil unrest in Syria.
In case any further assistance, contact the Indian Embassy in Damascus- Emergency Contact Numbers: +963 993385973 (also on WhatsApp) Email ID: hoc.damascus@mea.gov.in
The 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://www.dgshipping.gov.in/writereaddata/News/202405100132574984828ContactPointsforseafarer s.pdf)