New Delhi, May 10 – In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan, the Directorate General of Shipping has elevated maritime security measures at all Indian ports, terminals, and on Indian-flagged vessels to "MARSEC Level 2", a senior government official confirmed on Saturday.
The decision, formalized through a directive issued on May 8, comes amidst ongoing military hostilities and is seen as a proactive step to secure vital maritime infrastructure. The Directorate General of Shipping operates under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
What MARSEC Level 2 Means
The security upgrade aligns with international maritime protocols set by the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code, a framework developed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). This code is a critical part of the SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Convention and was established following global security concerns post-9/11.MARSEC Level 2 refers to a heightened security environment where additional protective measures are required for a limited period due to credible threats. It is generally initiated before any actual incident occurs, ensuring readiness and response capacity in vulnerable maritime zones.
The level calls for intensified security checks, increased surveillance, and enhanced coordination among port facilities and vessel operators.
Broader Security Measures and Trade Continuity
This move follows India’s recent ban on Pakistani-flagged vessels from accessing any Indian ports earlier this month, further indicating the country's tightened maritime vigilance.To ensure that trade activities remain unaffected, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, conducted a high-level review of all key maritime infrastructure projects on Friday. He directed officials to guarantee uninterrupted cargo movement and emphasized that normal business operations must be maintained across the country’s ports.
This elevated maritime alert underscores India’s broader strategy of maintaining internal security and trade stability amid the evolving regional crisis.
