New Delhi, October 22 (TNA) A Kuwait-flagged oil-products tanker carrying 21 Indian seafarers was struck by an unidentified projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz on Wednesday, but all crew members were reported safe.
The vessel, M/T Al Dasma, was hit on October 21 amid heightened tensions in the Middle East. India’s Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, said all 21 Indian crew members and the remaining crew were safe.
The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) tracked the incident around 11 nautical miles west of Bukha, Oman, on the southern side of the strategically important waterway. Authorities have not yet identified the source of the projectile or determined the full extent of damage to the tanker.
According to reports, the strike triggered a fire aboard the vessel, which was later brought under control. The tanker remained stationary after the incident, while the crew carried out safety procedures.
India monitoring situation
Minister Sonowal said the Indian government was continuously monitoring developments and remained in contact with the ship-management company to ensure the safety and welfare of the seafarers. The Strait of Hormuz connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and is one of the world’s most important maritime routes for oil and fuel shipments. Any attack or disruption in the waterway can raise concerns over shipping safety, insurance costs and global energy supplies.
UKMTO has advised vessels operating in the area to exercise caution, report suspicious activity and maintain close contact with maritime authorities while investigations continue.
The latest incident comes after a separate Kuwait-flagged tanker, MT Kazimah III, was struck by a projectile earlier in October. Five Indian nationals aboard that vessel were rescued and safely brought ashore, according to the Indian Embassy in Oman.
The latest incident comes after a separate Kuwait-flagged tanker, MT Kazimah III, was struck by a projectile earlier in October. Five Indian nationals aboard that vessel were rescued and safely brought ashore, according to the Indian Embassy in Oman.
Officials have not reported any fatalities or injuries in the Al Dasma incident. Further details about the vessel’s condition and the investigation are awaited.