New Delhi: The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has announced an immediate ban on all Pakistani-flagged vessels from entering any port in India. Simultaneously, the directive restricts Indian-flagged ships from docking at any port in Pakistan.
The stringent measure, officially issued under Section 411 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, signals a significant hardening of India’s maritime security posture. The Ministry stated that the decision was taken to safeguard India’s crucial cargo, vital port infrastructure, and other sensitive maritime assets.
While the official statement did not elaborate on specific threats, sources within the Ministry indicated that the move is a proactive measure considering the prevailing geopolitical climate and the need to ensure the unhindered flow of trade through Indian maritime channels.
Section 411 of the Merchant Shipping Act grants the government the authority to impose such restrictions in the interest of national security and public safety. The immediate implementation of the ban suggests the urgency and seriousness with which the government views potential risks.
The reciprocal restriction on Indian vessels accessing Pakistani ports is a natural consequence of the ban imposed by India. This mutual exclusion is likely to impact bilateral trade carried out via sea routes, although the extent of this impact remains to be seen.
Stakeholders in the shipping and logistics industries are currently assessing the implications of this sudden development. It is anticipated that cargo destined for or originating from Pakistan will now need to be rerouted through third-country ports, potentially leading to increased transit times and costs.
The Ministry is expected to issue further guidelines and clarifications regarding the implementation of this ban in the coming days. This decisive action underscores India’s commitment to protecting its maritime interests and ensuring the security of its trade and infrastructure.
Join our whatsapp group for Latest updates
Click Here for Chhattisgarh News
Click Here for Entertainment News