The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways has released draft amendments to the Inland Vessels (Survey and Certification) Rules, 2022, and is inviting public objections and suggestions. This notification was issued on February 25, 2025.
The proposed amendments, titled the Inland Vessels (Survey and Certification) (First Amendment) Rules, 2025, aim to refine and improve the survey and certification process for inland vessels, ensuring safety and compliance.
Key Proposed Amendments
Gross Tonnage Clarification
An explanation is added to clarify the calculation of Gross Tonnage for vessels above and below 24 meters, aligning with international standards.
Survey Requirements
Amendments are made to the requirements for inspections in dry dock or slipway, allowing for in-water surveys under specific conditions.
The scope of annual surveys is expanded to include radio and navigation equipment.
Surveyor Qualifications
Rule 23 is substituted with revised qualifications for appointment as a surveyor, detailing specific educational and experience requirements for marine engineers, naval architects, and master mariners.
Form Modifications
Several forms are modified or substituted to reflect the updated regulations, including changes to certificate of survey forms and surveyor information.
Several forms are also removed from the rules.
Other Changes
- Annual survey rule changed to include a general inspection of items.
- Rule 11 and 24 are removed.
- Amendments to fire fighting equipment and other small details.
Public Input Invited
The Ministry encourages all stakeholders to review the draft rules and provide their objections or suggestions by March 27, 2025.
Feedback should be sent to: Director (IWT), Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Room No. 536, Transport Bhawan, 1-Parliament Street, New Delhi-110001.Feedback can also be sent via email to: dsiwt-psw@gov.in and uttam.mishra27@gov.in.
