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Guidelines for an issuance of licences to passenger vessels in the Indian coastal waters - reg.
Applicable to:
All stakeholders, including Indian and foreign shipping companies, classification societies, and relevant administrations.
Effective Date:
2016-02-11
Superseded Circulars:
None mentioned
Key Changes and Requirements
1. Licensing Requirements for Foreign Flag Passenger Vessels
Foreign flag passenger vessels intending to operate in Indian coastal waters must comply with the following:
- Class: Vessels must be classed with a Maritime Classification Society approved by the Ministry of Shipping, DGS, Gol.
- Certificates: Vessels must possess valid certificates under relevant IMO Conventions/Codes (e.g., HSC Code, SOLAS, MARPOL).
- Exemptions: Applicants must submit details of exemptions/dispensations/conditions imposed by previous flags for scrutiny.
- Documentation: Operators must submit safety plans, stability reports, and a technical assessment report approved by a recognized organization.
- Compliance: Vessels must comply with the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958, and relevant rules.
2. Additional Requirements for Chartered Vessels
Foreign flag vessels chartered under sections 406/407 must comply with the Merchant Shipping (Regulation of Entry of Ships into Ports, Anchorages, and Offshore Facilities) Rules, 2012.
II/4 Vessels operating exclusively within inland water limits must comply with requirements prescribed by the relevant inland vessel authority.
Important Note
These measures aim to ensure safety, security, and prevention of untoward incidents in Indian waters, in public interest.
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