In a heart-warming reunion, 10 Indian seafarers who were stranded on the Gas Parrot vessel have safely returned to Mumbai on Friday, 24th January. The crew was abandoned by the vessel’s Italian owner, Gator Shipping, leaving them without support. However, thanks to the tireless efforts of the Director General of Shipping, the National Union of Seafarers of India (NUSI), and the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), the seafarers have been repatriated and reunited with their families.
The safe return of the Gas Parrot crew is a welcome relief for their families and a victory for the organizations that worked tirelessly to bring them home. Mr Milind Kandalgaonkar, General Secretary-cum-Treasurer of NUSI stated, “We are immensely relieved that the crew members are now reunited with their families.”
“The collaborative efforts of these organizations ensured not only the safe return of the seafarers but also the resolution of their overdue salaries,” added Mr Kandalgaonkar.
The incident highlights the importance of international cooperation in addressing the challenges faced by seafarers. The abandonment of the Gas Parrot by its owner left the crew in a vulnerable position, but the swift action of the Director General of Shipping, NUSI, and the ITF ensured that their rights were protected and their welfare was prioritized.
Marex Media