How India is Safely Moving Ships Through the Strait of Hormuz

Amidst escalating geopolitical tensions in West Asia, India has successfully navigated the critical Strait of Hormuz, ensuring the safe transit of numerous Indian-flagged vessels. Strategic coordination between the Directorate General of Shipping and regional authorities has significantly reduced the backlog of stranded ships from 38 down to 13 since February 2026. Major carriers, including those managed by the Shipping Corporation of India and Great Eastern Shipping, have utilized enhanced maritime security corridors to bypass conflict zones near the Port of Fujairah.

Operational compliance remains paramount under the International Maritime Organization’s SOLAS Chapter XI-2, which governs special measures to enhance maritime security. Vessels transiting these high-risk areas must strictly adhere to the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code and maintain updated Ship Security Plans (SSP). Furthermore, compliance departments must ensure that MARPOL Annex VI emission standards are met during forced idling periods, while classification societies like IRClass provide essential risk assessments to verify that all onboard navigation and communication equipment meets current international safety protocols.

For masters and navigating officers, this situation necessitates heightened vigilance and strict adherence to Best Management Practices (BMP5) for protection against maritime security threats. These professionals must ensure continuous monitoring of the Maritime Security Transit Corridor and maintain rigorous bridge watchkeeping standards. Masters are required to coordinate closely with the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre for the Indian Ocean Region to receive real-time updates, ensuring that all security drills are documented and crew readiness is maintained at the highest level.