India Bans Pakistan-Flagged Ships From Its Ports, Bars Indian Vessels From Docking In Pakistan

Amid escalating tensions following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India on Saturday (3 May) banned Pakistani ships from docking at Indian ports.

The order also limits Indian vessels from accessing ports in the neighbouring country. 

The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) in its order stated that restrictions were immediately implemented and will remain until further notice.

This is to guarantee the safety of Indian assets, cargo, and associated infrastructure, in the interest of public safety and the Indian shipping industry. 

“…in exercise of power conferred by section 411 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 read with objectives as enshrined under Preamble of the said Act, keeping in view of the present situation, the following directions are hereby issued: A ship bearing the flag of Pakistan shall not be allowed to visit any Indian Port. An Indian flag ship shall not visit any Ports of Pakistan,” the DGS order read, as quoted by the Indian Express. 

The Merchant Shipping Act's Section 411 grants the DGS the authority to direct ships to fulfil the goals of national interest or the interest of Indian shipping.

The Act encompasses Indian-flagged ships globally and foreign-flag ships when they are in Indian waters, with the aim "to ensure safety of life at sea and safety of ships." 

The directive from the DGS only applies to ships flying the flags of India and Pakistan, not those of any other nation.

This implies that vessels registered under different countries may be permitted to navigate between Indian and Pakistani ports.

The DGS clarified that any requests for "exemption or dispensation" from this directive would be "examined and decided on case-to-case basis", suggesting the potential for obtaining a waiver from these limitations. 

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