Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Proposes Amendments to Inland Vessels Survey and Certification Rules

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issued a notification on February 25, 2025, publishing a draft of the Inland Vessels (Survey and Certification) (First Amendment) Rules, 2025. These proposed rules aim to amend the existing Inland Vessels (Survey and Certification) Rules, 2022, which were originally notified on June 7, 2022. The Central Government, exercising powers conferred by various sub-sections of the Inland Vessels Act, 2021, published these draft amendments to invite objections and suggestions from all persons likely to be affected. The notice specified a thirty-day period from the date of publication in the Official Gazette for submitting feedback, after which the draft rules would be taken into consideration for finalization. Upon their final publication in the Official Gazette, these amending rules are slated to come into force.

The proposed amendments introduce several key changes to the regulatory framework governing inland vessels. A significant clarification pertains to the calculation of Gross Tonnage (a measure of a ship's overall internal volume, used for various regulatory purposes). The draft rules specify distinct methodologies based on vessel length. Furthermore, the provisions concerning the frequency and type of inspections for vessels have been revised. The existing requirement for dry dock or slipway inspections has been modified to mandate a minimum of two inspections within the five-year validity period of a certificate of survey, with no more than thirty-six months between any two such inspections. A notable addition is the allowance for one in-water survey to substitute a dry dock or slipway inspection, provided the vessel is less than 20 years old and does not operate in saline water. The scope of annual surveys has also been expanded to explicitly include the inspection of radio and navigation equipment, ensuring their satisfactory condition and fitness for service. Crucially, the draft rules propose a comprehensive update to the qualifications required for appointment as a Surveyor of inland vessels, detailing specific academic backgrounds and years of experience across various maritime and engineering fields. Several existing rules and forms, including Rule 11, Rule 24, sub-rule (4) of Rule 22, and Forms 1, 6, and 7, are slated for omission or substitution with updated versions, streamlining application processes and information requirements.

The legislative intent behind these proposed amendments is to enhance the safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory oversight of inland vessels in India. By clarifying the method for Gross Tonnage calculation, the Ministry seeks to standardize classification and ensure consistent application of rules. The revisions to survey requirements, particularly the introduction of in-water surveys under specific conditions, reflect a move towards modern inspection practices while maintaining rigorous safety standards. This addresses potential limitations in the earlier legal position by offering flexibility without compromising vessel integrity, especially for newer vessels not operating in harsh environments. The updated qualifications for surveyors aim to ensure that only highly competent and experienced professionals are entrusted with the critical task of vessel certification, thereby bolstering the credibility and effectiveness of the survey regime. The legislation provided: "Explanation. - For the purpose of this sub-rule, Gross Tonnage of vessels above 24 meters shall be calculated according to International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969 whereas Gross Tonnage of vessels less than 24 meters shall be calculated according to Rule 2 of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 1991." This clarification is fundamental to the regulatory framework, impacting how vessels are categorized and subsequently surveyed. The inclusion of radio and navigation equipment in annual surveys underscores a focus on modern safety apparatus, recognizing their vital role in communication and safe passage. The substitution and omission of various forms and rules are intended to simplify administrative procedures, making them more efficient for vessel owners and regulatory authorities alike. These changes collectively aim to create a more robust, responsive, and contemporary regulatory environment for inland water transport.

Keywords: Inland Vessels Act, Survey and Certification Rules, Draft Amendment, Ministry of Ports Shipping and Waterways, Gross Tonnage, Surveyor Qualifications, Vessel Inspection, Maritime Safety, Inland Waterways

Geo Tags: India, Delhi District: Not Applicable