Petitions PM, seeks implementing safety and security measures
MARGAO
The Goan Seamen Association of Goa (GSAI) has expressed its concern over the increasing number of pirate related attack faced by seafarers navigating through the Malacca Straits and other areas.
In a petition addressed to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other international Maritime organisations, the GSAI has called for implementing safety and security measures to protect the seafarers from the threats posed by the pirates.
Saying the recent incident has posed significant threats to the safety and security of seafarers that requires immediate attention and appropriate action, GSAI has requested and urged the concerned authorities to take immediate and concrete measures to safeguard the lives and interests of seafarers.
“The Malacca Strait is one of the busiest and most crucial shipping lanes globally, serving as a key link between the Indian and Pacific Oceans. However, recent incidents of piracy in the region have raised serious doubts about the adequacy of security measures in place to protect the lives and property of seafarers and the ship owners. Piracy attacks in the Malacca Strait have been on the rise in recent years, posing a significant threat to maritime trade and seafarers’ well-being in which a seafarer was seriously hurt during a stabbing incident, when the pirates boarded the ship,” GSAI president Frank Viegas informed.
Underscoring the need for immediate action to bolster security measures in order to prevent piracy in the Malacca Strait and other areas, Franky said enhanced collaboration among relevant authorities, including naval forces, coast guards agencies, and international organisations, is essential to ensure the safety and security of seafarers.
Suggesting a host of measures for the consideration of the maritime authorities, the GSAI has called for revising the manning requirements in the affected areas. “It should be such that at least rover watches be carried out to maintain a constant presence on deck without compromising other safety and security measures. This approach would significantly increase the chances of early detection and timely response to any potential threats posed by pirates,” it was suggested.
