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Merchant Shipping (Amendment) Act, 2014

Applicable to: Indian ships, ships operating under Indian authority, and ships entering Indian ports or waters
Effective Date: 9th December, 2014
Superseded Circulars: None explicitly stated

Key Changes and Requirements

1. Application and Scope — Merchant Shipping Act, 1958

This Act applies to Indian ships, ships operating under Indian authority, and ships entering Indian ports or waters. It introduces controls on harmful anti-fouling systems on ships.

  • Indian ships: Must comply with requirements and obtain certificates/declarations for international voyages.
  • Foreign ships: Must comply with anti-fouling system requirements and maintain records.

2. Certificates and Declarations — Section 356S

Indian ships of 400 gross tonnage and above must obtain an International Anti-Fouling System Certificate for international voyages. Smaller Indian ships must carry a declaration. Foreign ships must comply with prescribed anti-fouling system requirements.

II/4  International Anti-Fouling System Certificate

3. Inspection and Penalties — Section 356W, 356X, 436

Authorised surveyors can inspect ships, take samples, and verify records. Penalties apply for non-compliance, including fines up to ₹15 lakh for certain offenses.

  • Inspection: Authorised surveyors can inspect ships, take samples, and verify records.
  • Penalties: Fines up to ₹15 lakh for certain offenses.
Important Note

This Act introduces significant changes to anti-fouling system controls on ships. All affected parties should ensure compliance to avoid penalties.

Download official PDF

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