India, May 4 -- Pakistan banned Indian flag carriers from using its ports hours after New Delhi announced a similar measure as a fresh punitive step against the neighbouring country for its role in the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Hours after India's move, Islamabad announced late Saturday that any Indian flag carriers will not be allowed to visit any of its ports and also barred Pakistani ships from docking at any Indian port.

"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 f...