The existing Inland Vessels Act, 1917 has become absolute because of introduction of modern technology, change in size, type, capacity, propulsion, deck machineries, automation in operation of powered vessels in Indian waters.
There is, therefore, need to review the provisions of existing IV Act so as to rationalize the manning scale of vessels, training and education, and competency of manning staff and also to ensure statutory safety with regard to design, construction and operation of vessels. The Maritime State Development Council (MSDC), in its 15th meeting held on 16.11.2016, therefore, took a decision that a new IV Act should be enacted.
In compliance with the above decision, IWAI has prepared a Draft Bill in 2017 to enact a new IV Act and repealing the existing IV Act.
This Bill addresses the existing lacunae of variation of standards of Inland Vessels across States.
As per the Draft Bill Central Government would be nodal authority to stipulate uniformly applicable standards and measures to safe navigation of Inland Vessels.
The State Government would be empowered to implement the provisions of the new Bill. The proposed Bill has 16 parts to deal with different aspects of Inland Vessels and their use in inland waters.
The new Bill proposes reforms in the existing scheme of regulations related to certification of survey, registration, competency and service and also covers new types and categories of mechanically propelled vessels (termed as “Special Category Vessels”).
The Bill covers the existing category of Inland Vessels and those to be developed in future such as LNG vessels.
