The Eliana-I: Crew Feedback and Vessel Data

Nishanth Uirthanathan, a 35-year-old Second Officer from India, tragically passed away aboard the tanker 'Celestial' due to critical medical complications while stationed at Duqm Port (position: 24° 30' N 066° 5' E) on June 11, 2026. The Indian Embassy is actively engaging with the ship management team and relevant authorities to orchestrate the prompt return of his remains to India. Reports from the Forward Seamen’s Union of India (FSUI) indicate that Uirthanathan's body remained onboard for over two days without adequate refrigeration, prompting crew members to use cold water bottles in a desperate measure to delay decomposition. Uirthanathan initially fell ill on June 8, yet efforts to obtain medical intervention and arrange for an emergency evacuation were unsuccessful due to compromised communication services at Duqm Port. He succumbed to his ailments three days later, around 6 p.m. On June 15, the mortal remains of Nishanth Uirthanathan finally arrived at Duqm Port, Oman. In the wake of the tragedy, the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Oman Port Authorities, the Indian Embassy in Oman, D.G. Shipping, FSUI, and ITF Inspector Gulam for their collaborative support and efforts in facilitating the process. Notably, the 'Celestial' was previously intercepted by US Marines amid allegations of attempting to breach the US blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. For more detailed coverage, visit the Times of India: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/body-preserved-with-water-bottles-indian-sailor-dies-on-vessel-off-oman-coast-union-cites-aid-delay-amid-regional-tensions/articleshow/131707326.cms