Odia marine engineer Ashok Kumar Dixit returned home safely to Odisha after surviving 36 harrowing days aboard an LPG-laden vessel trapped in the Strait of Hormuz.
Dixit served as chief officer on the Indian-flagged LPG carrier, which faced extreme danger as missiles passed overhead and nearby ships came under threat. Hundreds of Indian seafarers endured similar ordeals as escalating tensions disrupted maritime traffic in West Asia. The vessel carried a vital cargo of liquefied petroleum gas bound for India, making its safe passage critical.
Upon landing in Bhubaneswar, Dixit reunited with his family. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to Lord Jagannath, crediting divine blessings and the prayers of the people of Odisha for his safe return. He described the ordeal as terrifying, recalling how missiles flew above, and nearby vessels faced attacks.
Dixit praised the Indian Navy and Government of India for their discreet and tactical rescue operations. He emphasised that coordinated efforts between his company and Indian authorities ensured the safety of stranded sailors. He considered himself blessed to serve his countrymen and thanked fellow Indians for their prayers.
His wife and daughter welcomed him with immense relief after weeks of anxiety. The homecoming brought joy to his family and pride to Odisha, highlighting the resilience of Indian seafarers and the effectiveness of India’s maritime rescue operations.
