Advisory and instructions on Safe Voyage Planning for General Cargo ships Operating between Mainland and A&N islands and within the A&N islands in Monsoon and Rough Weather Conditions – reg.

1. Safety Protocols for General Cargo Ships

All General Cargo Ships over 20 years of age operating in the specified corridors must comply with the following safety protocols during the foul weather season (1st May to 30th November) and any period of forecasted rough weather/cyclones.

• Prohibition on Carriage of Certain Cargoes: No bulk cargo such as sand, gravel, cement, or any other free-flowing material during the foul weather season or forecasted adverse weather.
• Cargo Securing and Lashing: Properly secure loose or unpackaged cargo using approved and tested lashing systems. Prohibited: makeshift lashings, unsecured containers, or open stowage of heavy items.
• Compliance with Seasonal Load Line Regulations: Strictly adhere to seasonal load line regulations. Maximum permissible load line not to be exceeded. Cargo weight independently verified by an authorized third-party surveyor.
• General Stowage Plan and Surveyor Certification: Prepare a General Stowage Plan, physically verify and certify by an independent third-party cargo surveyor, and submit a final report to the respective Mercantile Marine Department (MMD).
• Pre-departure Inspection and Reporting: Port authorities and pilots/harbour masters must verify drafts and assess weather conditions. If any anomaly, report to the Directorate General of Shipping and local MMD. Voyage not to commence until deficiencies rectified.
• Weather Forecast Compliance: No vessel to depart if adverse or rough weather conditions forecasted. Delay or suspend voyage until conditions subside and revised clearance obtained.
• Annual Monsoon Fitness Survey: Each vessel must undergo an additional fitness survey before the foul weather season. Survey conducted by a Recognized Organization, including inspection of hull, rudder, decks, bilge systems, and assessment of stability profile.
• Operational Readiness and Emergency Preparedness: Enhanced precautions during the foul weather season, including functional emergency pumps, continuous navigational watch, and operational communication systems.
• Submission of Monsoon Season Compliance Checklist: Submit a foul weather season Compliance Checklist before each voyage, confirming compliance with all requirements.