Collision between Bulk Carrier (Motor Vessel) & Feeder Barge (Daughter vessel) at road steads of Indian waters

Applicable to: Flag State / Class Surveyors, Ship Owners, Ship Managers, Ship Agents, Training Institutes, Workshops, Masters and Seafarers, Organisations of major ports, public and private minor ports functioning under the Indian Federal Government.

Effective Date: 2004-12-15

Superseded Circulars: None mentioned

Key Changes and Requirements

1. Safety Management System Implementation

Ship Owners, Ship Managers, and Masters must ensure effective implementation of the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, with emphasis on safe watchkeeping during loading/discharging operations at anchorage.

2. Communication Equipment on Barges

Barges operating on the coast of India should be fitted with communication equipment for effective communication with mother vessels and shore establishments.

3. Loading/Discharging Schedule

The operator of the feeder vessel should provide the loading/discharging schedule to the Master of the feeder vessel to facilitate smooth operations with the mother vessel.

4. Port Authorities' Responsibilities

Port Authorities should monitor the movement of barges, ensure their safe operations, and implement emergency preparedness plans to combat any emergency situations within the port vicinity.

Important Note

Non-compliance with these recommendations may result in severe casualties, oil pollution, and damage to vessels and port infrastructure.

Download official PDF

Want to learn and share your knowledge about the maritime world?

Explore the Blog app on Navvyx - Get maritime insights from across the world in one place.

Join Navvyx - it's Free