The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways has released draft amendments to the Inland Vessels (Safe Navigation, Communication & Signal) (First Amendment) Rules, 2025, and is inviting public comment. These draft amendments were published on January 29, 2025.
These proposed changes affect tonnage calculation, visibility rules, lighting requirements, and communication equipment.
Key Proposed Amendments
The draft clarifies how gross tonnage is calculated. Vessels over 24 meters will use the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969, while those under 24 meters will follow Rule 2 of the Merchant Shipping (Tonnage Measurement of Ships) Rules, 1991.
The rules now formally include a new “Chapter V – Conduct of Inland Vessels of Restricted Visibility”.
Rule 18’s heading is changed to “General Requirements of Lights and Shapes.” It is revised to clarify compliance with specific clauses related to lights and shapes. The previous title of “Chapter VI – Lights and Shapes” before Rule 19 is removed.
It is also proposed that the rules be amended to specify the vertical separation (approximately 1 meter) between the two all-round red lights and the two balls or similar shapes used as signals.
The general requirement for radio and navigation equipment based on the area of operation is proposed to be moved into a new sub-rule (1). Zone 1 and Zone 2 vessels will maintain existing equipment requirements. A new sub-rule (2) details minimum equipment for Zone 3 vessels:
- Magnetic Compass (handheld, portable, or electronic)
- VHF or UHF radio (as specified by the Central Government)
- Class B Automatic Identification System (AIS) with display
- Binocular
- Aldis lamp or searchlight
Public Consultation
The Ministry is seeking comments and suggestions on these draft amendments. The public has until February 28, 2025. to submit their feedback. Comments can be sent to the Director (IWT), Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Room No. 547, Transport Bhawan, 1-Parliament Street, New Delhi-110001, or via email to ajay.sirohi@nic.in and uttam.mishra27@gov.in.
These proposed amendments aim to update and clarify the rules governing inland vessel navigation, enhancing safety and communication standards. The changes related to tonnage calculation, lights and shapes, and communication equipment are particularly noteworthy.
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