KARACHI (Kashmir English): Pakistan has banned the use of all its ports by Indian flag carriers in a tit-for-tat move as tensions between the two countries rose in the wake of deadly Pahalgam attack in occupied Kashmir.
The April 22 attack killed 26 people, mostly tourists, and India implied cross-border links without evidence, while Pakistan has vehemently rejected the claim and called for a neutral investigation into the allegations.
Tensions have since risen, with India’s prime minister granting “operational freedom” to its military and Pakistan reinforcing its forces.
Diplomatic channels, however, were engaged to prevent conflict, especially, after Pakistan expected an Indian incursion within 24–36 hours, on April 30.
Earlier on Saturday, India said Pakistani flag carriers would not be allowed to visit any of its ports, while Indian flagged-ships would also not visit any Pakistani port.
“This order is issued to ensure safety of Indian assets, cargo and connected infrastructure, in public interest and for interest of Indian shipping,” the Directorate General of Shipping in India said in a statement.
Pakistan ports shut for Indian ships
Similarly, Pakistan Ministry of Maritime Affairs’ Ports and Shipping Wing issued an order which said: “In view of the recent development of maritime situation with neighbouring country, Pakistan in order to safeguard maritime sovereignty, economic interest and national security enforces following measures with immediate effect: Indian flag carriers shall not be allowed to visit any Pakistani port, Pakistani flag carriers shall not visit any Indian port [and] any exemption or dispensation shall be examined and decided on case to case basis.”
New Delhi has been taking more steps against Pakistan, including closing its airspace for Pakistani planes until May 23 and blocking social media accounts of media and leaders.
Trade between the two countries has decreased over the last few years.
India has also banned all imports from Pakistan. The country said it banned the import of goods originating from or transiting via Pakistan and suspended the exchange of inbound mail and parcels.
