Kerala Seafarer Stranded in Iran for Nearly a Year Receives Emergency Travel Document to Return Home
A 22-year-old seafarer from Kerala, Akshay Harish, who has been stranded in Iran for nearly a year, has received an Emergency Certificate from Indian authorities, bringing him closer to returning home. The development follows diplomatic efforts by the Indian Embassy and Consulate to resolve the documentation issues that prevented his departure. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the travel document had been issued and that arrangements were being coordinated for his return to India.
How Akshay Became Stranded in Iran
Akshay, a native of Kollam, Kerala, joined the merchant vessel Plam Marine in Japan in 2025. However, his situation became complicated when the ship reached Iran, where his passport and Continuous Discharge Certificate (CDC), an important record of a seafarer's professional service, were reportedly lost.
He was subsequently disembarked at Chabahar and faced difficulties completing the necessary immigration formalities without his travel documents. As a result, he remained in Iran for several months, unable to return home.
India's Diplomatic Efforts Facilitate His Return
The Indian Embassy in Tehran and the Consulate in Bandar Abbas intervened after Akshay approached Indian authorities on November 9, 2026. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that officials contacted the ship's owner and local agent to explain the requirements for issuing an emergency travel document.
Following the necessary procedures, an Emergency Certificate was issued to Akshay. The document provides an alternative to a regular passport for Indian citizens who have lost their travel documents and need to return to the country. Diplomatic officials are coordinating the remaining arrangements to facilitate his journey.
Family and Employer Provide Support
During his prolonged stay in Iran, Akshay reportedly received accommodation and food assistance from his employer. Meanwhile, his family continued approaching authorities and public representatives in Kerala to seek help in bringing him home.
The issuance of the Emergency Certificate has brought considerable relief to his family, although the final travel arrangements must still be completed before his return can be confirmed.
Importance of Protecting Indian Seafarers Abroad
India has a significant workforce in the international maritime industry, with thousands of seafarers contributing to global shipping and trade. However, working overseas can sometimes involve unexpected challenges, including missing documents, employment disputes and immigration complications.
Akshay's experience highlights the importance of diplomatic assistance and stronger coordination between shipping companies, maritime authorities and Indian missions abroad to protect the interests of seafarers.
The MGMM Outlook
Akshay Harish, a 22-year-old seafarer from Kollam, Kerala, has received an Emergency Certificate from Indian authorities after being stranded in Iran for nearly a year due to lost travel documents. Following his disembarkation from the merchant vessel Plam Marine at Chabahar, he faced difficulties completing immigration formalities without his passport and Continuous Discharge Certificate. The Indian Embassy in Tehran and Consulate in Bandar Abbas intervened after he approached authorities on November 9, 2026. Their coordination with the ship's owner and local agent helped secure the emergency travel document, bringing him closer to returning to India.
This development highlights India's continued commitment to assisting its citizens facing difficulties abroad. The coordinated efforts of the Ministry of External Affairs and Indian diplomatic missions demonstrate the importance of timely intervention and accessible consular support during emergencies. Akshay's situation also draws attention to the challenges faced by Indian seafarers working in international waters, particularly when documentation or employment-related complications arise. Ensuring their safety, legal protection and access to diplomatic assistance remains essential as India continues to play a significant role in the global maritime sector.
(Sources: Hindustan Times, The New Indian Express, India Today)
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