Indian sailors say they are scared to continue with their jobs amid increasingly dangerous attacks on commercial ships in and around the Red Sea, says an article published on national news website.
Summary
- Recent Houthi missile attack on a commercial ship in the Red Sea caused fear among Indian sailors
- Three crew members died, and others were injured, leading to widespread concern in the maritime community
- Ramalingam Elaiyaraja and Ram Kumar highlighted the lack of information on safe routes and the evolving security threats in the region
- Sailors are considering quitting their jobs due to safety concerns, impacting their families
Deadly Attack Sparks Fear
The recent deadly Houthi missile attack on a commercial ship near the Red Sea has sent shockwaves through the Indian maritime community. Three crew members lost their lives in the attack, and several others were injured, prompting widespread fear among Indian sailors.
Growing Concerns Among Seafarers
Ramalingam Elaiyaraja, a veteran crew member from Tamil Nadu, expressed his concerns, highlighting the lack of official information about the routes ships take and the increasing risks faced by sailors in the region.
Rising Security Threats
Chief marine engineer Ram Kumar echoed these sentiments, noting the evolving nature of threats from traditional piracy to more sophisticated missile and drone attacks by groups like the Houthis. He emphasized the inadequacy of current ship defenses against such modern threats.
Contemplating Career Changes
The heightened risks have led many sailors, including Mr. Kumar, to consider quitting their jobs due to concerns about their safety and security, as well as the impact on their families.
Calls For Government Intervention
Dr. A Babu Mailan, chairman of the Indian Seafarers’ Welfare Organisation, has urged the Indian government to provide military assistance to ships with Indian crew navigating through the Red Sea region during these turbulent times, emphasizing the critical role of sailors in global trade and economic activities.
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Source: national news
