Amid rising geopolitical tensions and potential maritime threats, the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) has directed all Indian ports, terminals, and vessels to upgrade their security measures to ISPS Level 2. This includes enforcing blackout drills, conducting security audits, and enhancing cyber and physical access controls.
The measures are in response to advisories regarding increased maritime security risks in the Arabian Sea and surrounding regions. Ports are instructed to maintain high vigilance, restrict unauthorized access, and ensure strict monitoring of cargo and personnel movement. Dedicated drills and real-time response protocols are being put in place.
With over 25,000 ships calling at Indian ports annually, these enhanced measures aim to safeguard maritime trade routes, ensure crew safety, and maintain uninterrupted port operations. The move is expected to have minimal impact on commercial vessel movements while significantly boosting India’s maritime security posture.