NEW DELHI: The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has facilitated timely welfare assistance and repatriation support for 15 Indian seafarers who were stranded at Kamsar Port, Republic of Guinea, following prolonged non-payment of wages while serving onboard MV GOLDY SEVEN (IMO No. 9135731).
Following the disembarkation of the seafarers, immediate assistance was required to meet their essential needs, including food, accommodation, subsistence and arrangements for their return to India.
Upon receiving information about the situation, DGMA promptly intervened to safeguard the welfare, safety and rights of the affected seafarers. DGMA coordinated with the Seafarers Welfare Fund Society (SWFS), Mumbai, and the Embassy of India in Conakry to ensure that the stranded crew received necessary support and assistance for their safe repatriation.
Recognising the immediate humanitarian needs of the seafarers, SWFS extended interim financial assistance under its welfare mandate, with the approval of the SWFS Committee of Management. The assistance was provided in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures and supported the seafarers with essential requirements, including food, accommodation, subsistence and repatriation-related needs.
The Embassy of India in Conakry also played an important role in supporting the affected seafarers by facilitating accommodation, food and the necessary arrangements for their repatriation to India.
The coordinated intervention by DGMA, SWFS and the Embassy of India ensured that the 15 Indian seafarers received timely humanitarian and welfare assistance during a difficult period and were supported towards their safe return home.
The intervention underscores the collective commitment of Indian maritime authorities and welfare institutions to protecting the dignity, safety, welfare and rights of Indian seafarers, including those facing hardship or abandonment in foreign ports.
DGMA and SWFS continue to remain committed to extending timely assistance to Indian seafarers in distress and ensuring that appropriate welfare mechanisms are available to support them, irrespective of where they may be stranded across the globe.
Every Seafarer Matters. Every Safe Return Matters.
