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Amendments to Chapter IV- Radiocommunications under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS), and Its applicability
**DGS Order 24 of 2023: Amendments to Chapter IV - Radiocommunications under SOLAS**
Applicable to:
All Indian-flagged ships and foreign ships sailing within Indian jurisdiction
Effective Date:
01 January 2024
Superseded Circulars:
MS Notice 19 of 2010, MS Notice 9 of 2010
Key Changes and Requirements
1. Revised Chapter IV - Radiocommunications — MSC Resolution 496(105)
The revised chapter IV introduces new definitions, functional requirements, and exemptions. It also updates the application of GMDSS and the provision of radiocommunication services.
- New Definitions: AIS-SART, Bridge-to-bridge communications, Continuous radio watch, etc.
- New Functional Requirements: Transmitting and receiving MSI, urgency, and safety communications, and bridge-to-bridge communications.
- Updated Exemptions: Partial or conditional exemptions may be granted by the Administration under specific conditions.
- Updated GMDSS Application: GMDSS identities are now registered and made available to rescue coordination centers on a 24-hour basis.
- Updated Radiocommunication Services: Each Contracting Government undertakes to make available appropriate shore-based facilities for mobile satellite services and maritime mobile services.
II/4 Sea areas defined
Sea areas are now defined as A1, A2, A3, and A4. Indian waters fall under Sea Area A3, covered by Recognized Mobile Satellite Service (RMSS) through INMARSAT and Iridium service.
Important Note
All ships are required to comply with the revised chapter IV to give full effect to the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea and the mandatory codes.
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