“In light of recent developments and growing concerns regarding potential threat to Indian ports, coast, terminals and vessels, to emphasise the necessity of implementing additional protective measures during period of heightened security risks, it is hereby directed that all ports, terminals and shipyards, shall ensure heightened maritime measures, including elevation to ISPS security Level 2 with immediate effect. All Indian-flagged vessels operating in and near to the Indian subcontinent, and neighbouring countries, are required to elevate security to Level 2 and implement the applicable security measures according to the ship security plan,” a notice to all maritime stakeholders by India’s shipping regulator Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) said. The International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Level-2, among

other measures, includes enhanced monitoring of access points, stricter access controls, increased frequency of security patrols, and potentially searches of people, baggage, and vehicles.

Ports and terminals have also been asked to conduct blackout tests and unannounced security drills to test and reinforce preparedness. Chief Information Security Officers of all port facilities will review their IT security systems to prevent any threats of cyberattacks. The shipping regulator earlier banned all vessels from Pakistan from docking at Indian ports.

Transporters are also bracing for disruption. “It is very early to quantifiably assess the impact on shipments. Blackout protocols in border states have brought disruptions to logistics. Additionally, several port facilities on the western coast have also been involved for military use, potentially impacting movement of cargo from these ports. We’re expecting more disruptions going forward, and it is possible that added costs in terms of war risk premiums on marine insurance will come about,” said Dushyant Mulani, chairman of Federation of Freight Forwarders Associations in India.