The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) of the Government of India has issued a very important circular in view of the suddenly increasing tension in the Middle East. According to this update dated March 1, 2026, Indian sailors present in and around the Iranian waters now need to remain alert 24 hours a day. The government has clearly said that the situation is serious and it is necessary to follow the safety rules at all costs so that any untoward incident can be avoided.
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What instructions did the government give to sailors and shipping companies?
DGS has imposed strict restrictions on shipping companies and recruitment agencies (RPSL). No Indian seafarer will be sent to Iran for job till further orders. Indian seafarers who are already there have been advised to leave the country immediately by commercial flights or other available means. This decision has been taken keeping in mind the safety of life and property of the sailors.
There has been a complete ban on new recruitment and sending of sailors to Iran. Existing sailors have been strictly advised to leave as soon as possible. It is now necessary to conduct security drills to avoid ‘suicide drone’ and boat attacks on ships. It is mandatory to send your location and status report to the Indian Navy and DGComm Center every day.
What was the impact on air travel and oil prices?
Oil prices saw an immediate surge amid reports of road blockades in the Strait of Hormuz. There is a fear in the market that if oil tankers are stopped, prices may increase further, which may impact the prices of petrol and diesel. Experts say that the insurance premium of sea vessels will now become very expensive, due to which the cost of freight transportation will also increase.
Its direct impact has started becoming visible on air travel as well. More than 100 flights at Delhi Airport and 125 flights at Mumbai Airport have either been canceled or diverted. Many countries in the Middle East have closed their airspace, due to which there is a possibility of increase in ticket prices on the remaining routes.