Odia Marine Engineer Returns Home After 36 Days Stranded in Strait of Hormuz

Bhubaneswar: In a heartwarming homecoming, Odia marine engineer Ashok Kumar Dixit returned to Odisha on Saturday evening after spending 36 days stranded aboard an LPG-laden vessel in the Strait of Hormuz amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

Dixit, who was serving as the chief officer on an Indian-flagged LPG carrier, was among several Indian seafarers caught in the crisis as regional conflict disrupted maritime movement. The vessel, carrying a large consignment of liquefied petroleum gas bound for India, faced extremely hazardous conditions during the period.

According to Dixit, the situation at sea was highly volatile, with missiles reportedly passing overhead and nearby ships coming under threat. Despite the dangers, coordinated efforts by Indian authorities and maritime agencies ensured the safety of those on board.

After arriving in Bhubaneswar, Dixit was reunited with his family, who had been anxiously waiting for his safe return. He expressed deep gratitude, attributing his survival to divine blessings and the prayers of people.

“I returned safely by the grace of Lord Jagannath and the blessings of everyone who prayed for us,” he said.

Dixit also praised the Indian Navy and the Government of India for their swift and professional response in ensuring the safety and evacuation of stranded seafarers. He noted that both the shipping company and Indian authorities worked in close coordination during the crisis.

His return has brought immense relief and joy to his family, especially his wife and daughter, who had endured weeks of uncertainty during the ordeal.