In a dramatic mid-sea rescue, 23 Indian crew members aboard an LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) tanker were saved after a sudden explosion tore through the vessel near the Yemen coast in the Gulf of Aden. The incident, which occurred late Saturday night, highlights once again the risks faced by seafarers navigating volatile maritime routes in the Arabian Sea region.
According to preliminary reports, the explosion caused a fire in one section of the ship but was swiftly contained, preventing a catastrophic gas leak.
What Happened
The LPG carrier, reportedly sailing under a foreign flag but crewed predominantly by Indians, was en route from the Persian Gulf to the African coast when the explosion occurred approximately 90 nautical miles off Yemen’s Al Mukalla.
Maritime rescue authorities received a distress call shortly after midnight. Nearby vessels and Indian Navy warships on anti-piracy patrol responded quickly, coordinating evacuation efforts in collaboration with the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO).
“All 23 Indian nationals have been rescued and are safe. The fire has been controlled and the ship is under tow,” confirmed an Indian Navy spokesperson.
Cause Under Investigation
While the exact cause remains uncertain, early assessments suggest the explosion originated in the engine or compressor section of the tanker — a critical area during gas transfer or maintenance. Experts have not ruled out the possibility of a mechanical malfunction or fuel-gas leak ignition.
Maritime security sources noted that the region remains tense due to ongoing Houthi rebel activity, but there is currently no evidence of an external attack.
The Rescue Operation
The rescue unfolded in rough sea conditions.
Indian naval personnel reached the site within hours, providing fire-fighting and medical assistance.
Damaged compartments were sealed to prevent a larger blaze.
The rescued crew members were transferred to a naval support ship for medical evaluation.
“This swift response demonstrates India’s strong maritime readiness and commitment to the safety of its citizens abroad,” said a defence official.
Background – High-Risk Waters
The Gulf of Aden and adjacent Red Sea corridors are among the most heavily patrolled shipping lanes globally, serving as gateways for oil, gas, and container traffic between Asia and Europe.
However, these routes also pose threats — from accidents, piracy, and conflict spillovers linked to the Yemen war.
India’s Directorate General of Shipping and External Affairs Ministry have stepped up coordination with foreign maritime agencies to ensure the rescued crew’s early repatriation.
Global Reaction
Shipping and energy companies have expressed relief at the rescue but renewed calls for enhanced safety audits on LPG and chemical tankers.
Environmental groups also cautioned that such explosions, even when contained, can pose serious risks of marine pollution and airborne toxic release.
FAQs
Q1: Where did the explosion occur?
Near Yemen’s Al Mukalla coast in the Gulf of Aden, about 90 nautical miles offshore.
Q2: How many Indians were on board?
A total of 23 Indian crew members, all safely rescued.
Q3: Was the explosion caused by an attack?
Authorities currently suspect a technical or mechanical fault; no signs of a militant strike have been found.
Q4: Who led the rescue?
The operation was coordinated by the Indian Navy, assisted by nearby merchant vessels and UKMTO.
Q5: What happens next for the crew?
They are undergoing medical checks and will be repatriated once the ship is stabilized and investigations conclude.
Conclusion
The rescue of 23 Indians after the LPG tanker explosion near Yemen stands as a testament to rapid international maritime coordination and India’s commitment to seafarer safety. While the cause is still under review, the event underscores the importance of strict maintenance, safety training, and emergency readiness on high-risk global shipping routes.
As investigations continue, authorities will aim to ensure that such incidents — though rare — are met with even stronger preventive measures to safeguard lives and the environment.
Published on : 20th October
Published by : SMITA
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