The Bangladeshi vessel ‘MV Banglar Joyjatra’ has been stranded at Jebel Ali Port in the United Arab Emirates after Iran launched retaliatory strikes targeting US bases and other installations across several Middle Eastern countries following attacks by the US and Israel.
Due to the volatile situation, cargo operations on the ship have been temporarily suspended, and the sailors and crew have been safely evacuated.
The information was shared on Sunday night (March 1) by Commodore Mahmudul Malek, Managing Director of the Bangladesh Shipping Corporation (BSC), which owns the vessel.
Sources said that MV Banglar Joyjatra arrived at Jebel Ali Port on February 27, carrying 38,800 tons of steel coils from Mesaieed Port in Qatar. The vessel has 31 sailors on board. In addition to this ship, BSC currently owns six other vessels operating in ports across the United States, Canada, Russia, Senegal, Liberia, and Pakistan.
Given the tense situation in the Middle East, concerns have risen at BSC regarding their vessel in the UAE. Commodore Mahmudul Malek told Jago News that continuous communication is being maintained with MV Banglar Joyjatra.
“The ship arrived at Jebel Ali Port two days ago with 38,800 tons of steel coils. Due to the warlike situation, cargo unloading has been temporarily suspended. An online meeting has already been held with the ship’s master, emphasising that the safety of the crew is our top priority. Additional precautions have been advised, along with detailed security instructions. Strict access control at the port and measures to maintain crew morale have also been recommended,” he said.
Commodore Malek added that the ship is currently stationed at the port’s jetty, which is relatively safer because, in an emergency, the crew can take shelter within the port. The ship has been instructed to maintain sufficient food and water supplies. The master has also been directed to provide regular updates on the situation while adhering to the port’s security instructions. Additionally, the Shipping Minister and Director General of Shipping have been informed of the vessel’s current status.