Seafarers who had returned to India from Iran described their harrowing experience of being near missile launches without proper sign-offs from their captain, leaving them hopeless about coming back. Manan Singh Chauhan, a Trainee Wiper from Uttar Pradesh, credited the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) General Secretary Manoj Kumar Yadav for facilitating their return. Chauhan recalled the fear during missile landings and the relief of finally leaving the dangerous situation behind.
Chauhan shared that their ship was stranded in a high-risk area in Iran, facing constant missile threats, until a new captain allowed them to depart for a safer location. Despite the challenges, they managed to reach Armenia with the help of contacts and eventually made their way back to India. Chauhan expressed gratitude towards Yadav for enabling their safe return amidst the turmoil.
The seafarers highlighted the lack of government assistance for those still stranded in the conflict zone, with many facing financial difficulties and relying on external support for survival. FSUI General Secretary Yadav emphasized the dire situation faced by seafarers in the region, where thousands are still awaiting repatriation. The closure of airspace has forced them to take longer, more arduous routes to return home.
