India elevates maritime security to MARSEC Level 2 amid growing threats

Monday, 19 May 2025 02:25 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Amidst escalating tensions with Pakistan and repeated attacks by the neighbouring country, India has issued an advisory elevating the security level at all its ports, terminals, and ships from MARSEC Level 1 to MARSEC Level 2.

MARSEC Level 2 signifies a heightened risk of a security incident and requires the implementation of additional protective security measures for a period of time.

This means that ships, ports, and offshore facilities, along with their associated maritime industry participants, must take specific actions to enhance security. These measures are designed to address the elevated threat level and ensure the safety and security of the maritime environment.

The directive, dated 8 May, comes in response to rising concerns over potential threats to the Indian coast, ports, terminals, and vessels, as highlighted by recent developments and intelligence inputs.

Under the new directive, all Indian-flagged vessels operating in and around the Indian sub-continent and neighbouring countries are required to comply with the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code at MARSEC Level 2. This escalation mandates enhanced security protocols, including increased surveillance, stricter access controls, and heightened vigilance to mitigate potential threats.

Additionally, all ports and terminals are instructed to conduct blackout tests and unannounced security drills without prior notice to assess real-time preparedness and strengthen response mechanisms.

The advisory also calls for a comprehensive review of IT and communication systems by the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of port facilities to prevent and mitigate the growing risk of cyberattacks, which have become a significant concern for the maritime sector globally.

“This directive is issued in the interest of national maritime security and must be treated with utmost urgency and priority,” the advisory states, emphasising strict compliance and warning that any breach will be viewed seriously by the competent authority.

The directive has been circulated to key stakeholders, including Port Facility Security Officers (PFSOs), the Indian National Shipowners’ Association (INSA), the Indian Coastal Conference Shipping Association (ICCSA), all Indian-flagged vessels, Principal Officers of Mercantile Marine Departments, and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways for immediate implementation.

The advisory, signed by Capt. Nitin Makhee, Deputy Nautical Advisor-cum-Senior Deputy Director General (Tech), references a prior advisory from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) dated 24 April 2025, and subsequent communications from the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS Order No. 05 of 2025 dated 3 May 2025, and DGS Circular No. 16 dated 6 May, 2025).

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