New Delhi: India on Saturday banned all Pakistan-flagged ships from entering its ports, following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed 26 lives.
The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issued a directive barring vessels flying the Pakistani flag from docking at any Indian port. Additionally, Indian-flagged ships have been prohibited from visiting ports in Pakistan.
The directive, citing national security concerns, aims to safeguard Indian maritime assets, cargo, and infrastructure. It takes immediate effect and will remain in force until further notice.
“This action has been taken in the public interest, and to ensure the safety of Indian shipping and related infrastructure,” the ministry said.
It added that any exemption to the ban would be considered on a case-by-case basis.
The move comes hours after the Ministry of Commerce announced a total ban on imports from Pakistan, both direct and indirect.
The government notification states: “Import or transit of all goods originating in or exported from Pakistan, whether freely importable or otherwise permitted, is prohibited with immediate effect, until further orders.”
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Officials said the measures reflect India’s firm response to the escalating security threats posed by cross-border terrorism and are intended to uphold national security and public policy priorities.
The shipping directive is aligned with provisions under the Merchant Shipping Act, aimed at maintaining and developing an Indian mercantile marine fleet in the national interest.
