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The Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024
Key Changes and Requirements
1. Licensing Requirements
Vessels engaging in coasting trade or chartered by Indian entities must obtain a licence from the Director-General of Shipping.
- Licence Application: To be made to the Director-General in a prescribed form, manner, and on payment of a prescribed fee.
- Licence Validity: Licences shall be issued for a prescribed period and subject to prescribed conditions.
- Licence Suspension/Revocation: The Director-General may suspend, revoke, or modify a licence if the licensee violates any condition or fails to comply with applicable requirements.
2. National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan
The Central Government shall publish a National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan every two years.
- Plan Contents: Assessment of coastal shipping routes, operational improvements, long-term traffic forecasts, best practices, new routes, and promotion of Indian vessels.
- Committee Constitution: A committee consisting of representatives from various maritime bodies will prepare the plan.
3. Offences and Penalties
Vessels engaging in coasting trade without a licence, violating licence conditions, or failing to comply with directions or orders may face imprisonment, fines, and vessel detention.
- Penalties: Imprisonment up to six months and/or fines ranging from fifty thousand to fifteen lakh rupees, depending on the offence.
- Vessel Detention: Vessels involved in offences may be liable for detention.
The Director-General shall maintain a web portal containing information on coasting trade in India, updated monthly.
All vessels and stakeholders are advised to comply with the provisions of this Act to avoid penalties and vessel detention.
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