Sign-off of seafarers during second wave of COVID-19

10 May 2021 / India

The second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in India has led to re-imposition of movement restrictions to and from Indian by several countries.

The spread of coronavirus and the cross-border movement restrictions imposed by these countries has made repatriation of seafarers unsafe and difficult once they sign off at foreign ports. It has also become difficult to provide replacement seafarers for those signing off.

In view of the above, Indian seafarers presently on board are strongly advised to desist from signing off from the vessel, expect in case of extreme emergency /medical emergencies, for a period of one month or until the situation improves.

The seafarer whose tenure on board is going to exceed 11 months are required to intimate to this Directorate using the online repatriation request portal for further advise.

(For further details and updates, as well as information about operations in India, contact GAC India at [email protected])

Source: Directorate General of Shipping, Mumbai, DGS Circular No.13 of 2021 dated 8 May 2021

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