The Merchant Navy Welfare Board (India) – MNWB, led by Chairman Dr. N. Reuben Paul, along with its welfare team, as part of the Global Seafarers Welfare Initiative, visited and interacted with the rescued Philippine seafarers of M.V. KMAX EMPEROR. The team provided moral support, encouragement and welfare counselling, particularly to cadets and first-time seafarers affected by the incident.

All 24 Philippine crew members were rescued following the collision involving M.V. KMAX EMPEROR and M.V. TRUE MARINER at the outer anchorage of Kandla on 11 September 2026. As per the official Situation Report, 21 crew members were ashore at a hotel in Gandhidham, while three remained onboard assisting the salvage team and continued to receive necessary care.

On behalf of the global seafarers’ community, the MNWB India and Global Seafarers Organisation (GSO) express their sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Directorate General of Maritime Administration/DG Shipping, Deendayal Port Authority, MMD, Harbour Master, Deputy Conservator, Indian Coast Guard and all concerned authorities and agencies for their prompt action, effective coordination, continuous monitoring and timely assistance in protecting the lives and welfare of seafarers and supporting safe salvage and ship-safety operations.

The MNWB and GSO particularly appreciate the rescue response, inter-agency coordination and continued attention to crew welfare and maritime safety throughout the emergency and salvage operations.

The Merchant Navy Welfare Board (India) and GSO reaffirm their commitment to supporting seafarers of all nationalities during maritime emergencies and difficult circumstances.