Indian Ports Rules 2026

REGD. No. D. L.-33004/99 The Gazette of India CG-DL-E-21072026-274681 EXTRAORDINARY PART II—Section 3—Sub-section (i) PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY No. 586] NEW DELHI, TUESDAY, JULY 21, 2026/ASHADHA 30, 1948 MINISTRY OF PORTS, SHIPPING AND WATERWAYS NOTIFICATION New Delhi, the 21st July, 2026 G.S.R. 645(E).— Whereas the draft of the Indian Ports Rules, 2026 were published, by the Government of India in the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, vide notification number G.S.R.58(E), dated the 23rd January, 2026, in the Gazette of India, Extraordinary, Part II, Section 3, Sub-section (i), inviting objections and suggestions from all persons likely to be affected thereby, before the expiry of the period of thirty days from the date on which copies of the Official Gazette containing the said notification were made available to public; AND whereas, copies of the said Official Gazette were made available to the public on the 23rd January, 2026; AND whereas, objections and suggestions were received from the public in respect of the said draft rules have been duly considered by the Central Government. NOW, therefore, in exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) read with clauses (a), (b), (c), (d), (e), (f), (h), (i) and (j) of sub-section (2), of section 76, and sub-section (1) read with clause (a), (b), and (e) to (o) of sub- section (2), of section 78 of the Indian Ports Act, 2025 (27 of 2025), the Central Government, hereby makes the following rules, namely:— CHAPTER I PRELIMINARY 1. Short Title and Commencement. - (1) These rules may be called the Indian Ports Rules, 2026. (2) They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette. 2. Application. – The provisions of- (a) these rules shall apply to- (i) all major ports; and (ii) part or parts of the notified navigable rivers or channels leading to the ports as notified by the Government under sub-clause (iii) of clause (a) of sub-section (3) of section 1of the Act; (b) rules 12 to 23, rule 25, rules 26 to 29 and rule 30 shall apply to ports other than major ports; 3. Definitions. – (1) In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires, - (a) "Act" means the Indian Ports Act, 2025 (27 of 2025); (b) "advance waste notice" means the pre-arrival declaration containing information on waste held on board and waste intended to be discharged at the port, submitted under section 39 of the Act, in accordance with these rules; (c) "agent" means the agent as defined in clause (3) of section 3 of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 (24 of 2025); (d) "Form" means a Form appended to these rules; (e) "health officer" means the officer appointed under section 24 of the Act; (f) "incident" means any incident referred to in section 67 of the Act; (g) "maritime single window” means a digital platform which enables, inter alia, submission of standardised information and documents for fulfilment of port and ship reporting formalities in accordance with the Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic, 1965; (h) "owner of obstruction" means the person who holds the relevant permit, grant, licence or other lawful instrument issued by the Government under which the obstruction is established or maintained, and includes any concessionaire, lessee, or operator who is responsible, under contract or law, for the maintenance and safety of such obstruction; (i) "pollution incident" means any occurrence, event, or condition arising out of a vessel, port facility or operations within port limits that results in or is likely to result in- (i) discharge, escape, leakage or spillage of oil, oily mixture, oily residue; (ii) discharge or threat of discharge of noxious liquid substances; (iii) discharge or threat of discharge of harmful substances under MARPOL Convention; (iv) release of sewage, garbage, plastics, chemicals or waste harmful to the marine environment; (v) any condition posing a risk to- (A) the health of the coastal population and users of coastal waters; (B) fisheries and other living marine resources; (C) coastal and port installations, facilities and services; (D) tourist attractions, amenities and other economic interests of the coastal area; or (E) the conservation of marine and coastal ecosystems; (vi) threat to life or property or the environment; (j) "plan" means the port waste reception and handling plan prepared and implemented under section 38 of the Act; (k) "receipt" means a formal acknowledgement issued as proof of payment of fees or other charges in accordance with section 48 of the Act; (l) "Schedule" means a Schedule appended to these rules; (m) "shore-based welfare services" means the facilities and services contemplated under Regulation 4.4 of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 and specified in the guidelines issued by the Directorate General of Maritime Administration as updated from time to time; (n) "waste delivery receipt" means receipt issued by a port acknowledging receipt of waste from a vessel by a reception facility in accordance with sub-section (2) of section 40 of the Act. (2) The words and expressions used in these rules and not defined, but defined in the Act, shall have the meanings respectively assigned to them in the Act. CHAPTER II ADMINISTRATION 4. Appointment of officers and employees to Maritime State Development Council. – (1) The Central Government, as and when considered necessary, may make available or depute such officers and employees to the Maritime State Development Council for the efficient discharge of functions of the Council. (2) The pay, allowances, and other conditions of service of the officers and employees of the Council appointed through deputation under sub-rule (1), shall be regulated in accordance with the applicable rules and the allowances admissible to the corresponding grades, as revised or amended from time to time. 5. Other port officers. – Every port may, in addition to a conservator and harbour master, appoint such other port officers under sub-section (2) of section 18 of the Act, to discharge duties relating to marine operations, prevention and containment of pollution, safety and any other functions under the Act: Provided that one or more officers may be assigned to discharge all or any such functions or parts thereof. 6. Pay and allowances of other port officers. – The pay and allowances of the officers appointed under rule 5 shall be as determined by the Central Government. 7. Conditions of service of other port officers. – The conditions of service of other port officers appointed under rule 5 such as leave, tenure, probation, resignation, retirement and superannuation, working hours, promotion, seniority, conduct and disciplinary proceedings shall be as per service regulations of the port unless otherwise directed in this behalf by the Central Government. 8. Power of relaxation in certain cases.– The Central Government may relax any of the provisions of rules 5, 6 or 7 for a class or category of officers appointed under rule 5 relating to classification, appointment and their eligibility, for reasons to be recorded in writing. 9. Delegation of powers of conservator. – (1) The conservator, with the approval of the Government, may delegate to any other port officers all or any of its powers as required under sub-section (6) of section 18 of the Act. (2) Any delegation made by the conservator under sub-rule (1) shall – (a) be in writing; (b) specify the nature and extent of delegation in each case; (c) where the conservator is a body of persons, be passed by a general or special resolution of such body. (3) The conservator, with the approval of the Government, shall have the right to revoke, vary, or suspend the delegation of power, at any time, without assigning any reason, if deemed necessary in the interest of port safety, security or for any other reason, to be recorded in writing. 10. Health officer. – (1) There shall be a health officer for every major port appointed under sub-section (1) of section 24 of the Act. (2) The health officer shall discharge all health-related functions at the port as are assigned under the Act or by the directions of the Central Government, including compliance with the International Health Regulations, 2005. 11. Issuance of receipt. – Every officer or body of persons authorised to receive fees or other charges under section 48 of the Act shall issue a receipt acknowledging such payment. (2) All receipts issued under sub-rule (1) shall contain the particulars specified in Schedule I. (3) A duplicate receipt shall be issued upon written request of the payer, supported by identification and payment proof. (4) All receipts shall be maintained for a minimum period of seven years from the date of issuance. (5) The Authority may specify formats, digital templates, or standard operating procedures for issuance of such receipts. CHAPTER III POLLUTION 12. Provision of port reception facilities. – (1) Every port shall establish, operate and maintain port reception facilities as required under section 36 of the Act which are adequate to meet the needs of vessels using the port, without causing undue delay, having regard to— (a) the size, type and traffic profile of vessels calling at the port; (b) the nature, frequency and quantity of vessel-generated waste ordinarily delivered; and (c) operational characteristics of the port, including berth configuration, terminal layout and cargo handled. (2) The port reception facilities shall be capable of receiving, segregating and handling, as applicable, vessel-generated waste and residues in accordance with the following Annexes to the MARPOL Convention, namely:— (a) Annex I relating to oil, oily mixtures, sludge, bilge water, tank washings and exhaust gas cleaning system residues; (b) Annex II relating to residues and mixtures containing noxious liquid substances; (c) Annex IV relating to sewage, including treated and untreated black water and grey water; (d) Annex V relating to garbage, segregated by category, including plastics, food waste, operational waste, cargo residues and e-waste; and (e) Annex VI relating to ozone-depleting substances, exhaust gas cleaning system residues and other air pollution control residues. (3) Where applicable, port reception facilities shall also be adequate to receive ballast water and sediments in accordance with article 5 of the Ballast Water Management Convention, having regard to port side obligations and the availability of approved ballast water management systems on board vessels. (4) For the purposes of sub-rules (2) and (3), adequacy of port reception facilities shall be assessed having regard to the following technical and operational parameters, namely:- (a) capacity, including sufficient storage, treatment or transfer capability to handle waste volumes ordinarily generated between successive ports of call; (b) availability, including operating hours, response time and ability to receive waste upon reasonable notice; (c) accessibility, including safe and practicable access at berths, anchorages or terminals without interfering with vessel operations; (d) segregation and compatibility, ensuring that different categories of waste are handled separately and in a manner compatible with downstream treatment or disposal systems; (e) environmental and safety controls, including spill prevention, containment, occupational safety and emergency response arrangements; and (f) interface with vessels, including compatibility with standard shipboard discharge arrangements, hoses, couplings and connection points. (5) The port reception facilities shall be planned and operated on the basis of a demand-responsive approach, having regard to the information through advance waste notices, historical data on waste deliveries, any complaints or reports of alleged inadequacy of facilities and any changes in vessel technology, fuel types, emission control systems or waste streams. (6) Without prejudice to sub-rules (2) to (5), port reception facilities shall, as far as practicable, be capable of receiving- (a) wastes arising from the use of alternative fuels, shore power systems and emission-abatement technologies; and (b) any additional categories of vessel-generated waste as may be specified by the Central Government, having regard to technological developments and international standards. (7) Nothing in this rule shall be construed as requiring a port to provide identical facilities for waste at every berth, provided that adequate and effective arrangements exist to ensure reception of vessel-generated waste without undue delay and without risk of unlawful discharge into the sea. (8) The design, construction and operation of port reception facilities shall conform to the technical and operational standards specified in Schedule II. (9) The waste received at the port reception facility shall obtain necessary authorisation or approval as per domestic waste management rules framed under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 (29 of 1986) and the storage, handling, transportation, disposal etc. of the waste received at such facilities shall be dealt with in accordance with the said rules. (10) The sanitary waste generated at the port or received from vessels shall be disposed of and treated in accordance with the applicable domestic solid waste management rules, 2026. 13. Form and manner of port waste reception and handling plan. – (1) The port waste reception and handling plan prepared under sub-section (1) of section 38 of the Act shall, at minimum, contain the following, namely:- (a) an assessment of the need for waste reception facilities, in the light of the need of the ships normally visiting the harbour or terminal; (b) a description of the types and capacity of waste reception facilities; (c) a detailed description of the procedures for the reception and collection of prescribed wastes; (d) a description of the charging system, if any; (e) procedures for ongoing consultations with persons using the harbour or terminal, waste contractors and other interested parties; (f) the type and quantities of specific wastes received and handled. (2) The plan may also include— (a) a summary of relevant legislation and formalities for delivery; (b) identification of a person or persons to be responsible for the implementation of the plan; (c) a description of the pre-treatment equipment and processes in the harbour or terminal, if any; (d) a description of methods of recording amounts of specified wastes received; (e) a description of how the specific wastes are disposed of. (3) The plan may also include the following information to be made available to all harbour or terminal users, namely:- (a) a brief reference to the fundamental importance of proper delivery of specific wastes; (b) the location of waste reception facilities applicable to each berth, with a diagram or map; (c) list of specific wastes normally dealt with; (d) list of contact points, the operators and the services offered; (e) description of procedures for delivery; (f) description of charging system, if any; (g) procedures for reporting alleged inadequacies of waste reception facilities; and (h) information and records with respect to waste collected to be recorded as per domestic waste management rules in addition to the waste categories mentioned under MARPOL. (4) The port shall prepare the plan in consultation with stakeholders, including agents, and, upon approval by the Board, shall publish and maintain the plan in electronic form, aligned with the relevant formats adopted by the International Maritime Organization. 14. Review and availability of the plan. – (1) The plan may be reviewed every two years by the Authority. (2) The plan shall be made available to port users preferably electronically or in such manner as the Authority may determine. 15. Information to be communicated to vessels in relation to plan. – (1) Every port shall ensure that the following minimum information of the plan is communicated to vessels normally using that port, namely:- (a) particulars of the port and plan in accordance with rule 12; (b) contacts and emergency information including- (i) list of relevant contact points; (ii) contact details of environmental or health officers responsible for waste-related incidents. (c) complaint and feedback mechanism including- (i) procedure for vessels to lodge any complaints on alleged inadequacy or unavailability of reception facilities, with reference, where applicable, to the International Maritime Organization reporting format and the designated contact point; (ii) indication of how complaints will be acknowledged and addressed. (d) environmental and safety requirements such as- (i) any port-specific environmental or occupational safety requirements applicable during delivery of waste, including personal protective equipment, traffic control and spillage prevention measures; (ii) description of any local prohibitions or sensitive areas relevant to waste transfer operations. (2) The information referred to in sub-rule (1) shall be communicated preferably electronically or in such manner as the Authority may determine. (3) The information under this rule shall be kept updated as far as practicable by the Authority to reflect material changes in the plan. (4) Every port shall maintain, for a period of not less than five years- (a) copies showing the information communicated at different points in time; (b) records of any complaints received in relation to the adequacy, accessibility or clarity of information on port reception facilities, and actions taken thereon. 16. Advance waste notice. - (1) Every vessel intending to call at a port shall submit an advance waste notice under section 39 of the Act to the port of call. (2) The advance waste notice shall be submitted irrespective of whether the vessel— (a) intends to discharge waste; (b) has no waste to discharge; or (c) wishes to retain all waste on board. (3) An advance waste notice shall be submitted- (a) at least twenty-four hours before the arrival of vessel; or (b) if the voyage is less than twenty-four hours, at the time of departure from the previous port; or (c) if the port of call becomes known less than twenty-four hours in advance, as soon as the information becomes available. (4) Any material change in the information submitted may be updated as soon as practicable. (5) The advance waste notice shall be provided in alignment with Form-I, as specified under these rules. (6) The advance waste notice shall be submitted, preferably by electronic means, as may be specified by the Authority. (7) The port shall maintain records of advance waste notices for administrative and audit purposes, in such manner as it may determine. (8) Advance waste notices shall be made available to any stakeholder as determined by the Authority. 17. Waste delivery obligations. – (1) Unless exempted under sub-rule (2), the master of a vessel calling at a port shall ensure that all vessel-generated waste which cannot be lawfully discharged into the sea in accordance with the provisions of the MARPOL Convention is delivered to an appropriate port reception facility before the vessel departs from the port as required under section sub-section (1) of section 40. (2) A port may exempt a vessel, in whole or in part, from the obligation referred to in sub-rule (1), where the master demonstrates to the satisfaction of the conservator or such authorised person appointed by it, that the conditions and parameters specified in Schedule III are met. (3) The conservator or such authorised person appointed by it shall record in writing the satisfaction referred to in sub- rule (2) that- (a) the vessel has sufficient dedicated and segregated storage capacity for all vessel- generated waste remaining on board and expected to be generated until the next port of call, so as to continue the voyage without any discharge into the sea in contravention of the MARPOL Convention; and (b) adequate and suitable port reception facilities for the relevant categories of vessel-generated waste are available at the next port of call, taking into account information published through the International Maritime Organization Global Integrated Shipping Information System or such other reliable and publicly accessible sources as may be recognised by the Central Government. (4) Any exemption granted under sub-rule (2) shall be recorded in writing and retained by the port in such manner as it may determine for audit purposes. (5) In situations of temporary overloading, malfunction, or unavailability of port reception facilities, the conservator shall, as far as practicable- (a) prioritise vessels which, having regard to their type, cargo, fuel, or waste characteristics, present a higher risk of marine pollution; (b) coordinate with nearby ports and competent authorities, as appropriate authorised waste reception operators, and other competent authorities to make alternative reception arrangements; and (c) ensure that any delay or alternative arrangement does not result in the unlawful discharge of vessel- generated waste into the sea. 18. Waste delivery receipt- (1) Every port reception facility shall issue a waste delivery receipt upon receiving waste from a vessel as required under sub-section (2) of section 40 of the Act. (2) A copy of the waste delivery receipt shall be provided to— (a) the master, (b) the agent of the vessel, and (c) the port or Authority. (3) The waste delivery receipt shall be issued in the form to be specified by the port in this behalf, which shall include- (a) vessel particulars, including name and International Maritime Organization number; (b) waste categories delivered in accordance with the following Annexes to the MARPOL Convention, namely:- (i) Annex I relating to Oily waste or sludge or bilge; (ii) Annex II relating to Noxious liquid residues; (iii) Annex IV relating to Sewage (iv) Annex V relating to Garbage categories A-G (v) Annex VI relating to Exhaust gas cleaning residues (c) quantity of waste delivered, including the unit of measurement; (d) details of the port reception facility receiving the waste; (e) date and time of delivery; (f) status of receipt of waste, including acceptance or rejection, in whole or in part; (g) confirmation of receipt and onward handling or transfer of waste, as applicable; and (h) authentication by the port reception facility and the master or authorised officer of the vessel. (4) The waste delivery receipt may be issued preferably electronically or in physical form. (5) The waste delivery receipt shall be issued within one hour of completion of waste discharge from vessels and in the event that the receipt is not issued within one hour, the delay and the reasons thereof shall be recorded in writing. (6) All quantities in a waste delivery receipt shall be expressed in metric units, and decimal notation shall be used consistently. (7) The waste delivery receipt shall be in English and a translation in any additional language may be provided for convenience and in case of inconsistency, the English text shall prevail. (8) Where waste is delivered in more than one batch, separate waste delivery receipts may be issued. (9) The reception facility shall maintain digital or physical records of all waste delivery receipts and may share with any stakeholders as it may be required. (10) The port or reception facility provider shall ensure that all data fields required to be uploaded in respect of the waste delivery receipt are completed accurately and in a timely manner in accordance with section 43 of the Act. 19. Audit. – (1) The audit under sub-section (1) of section 42 of the Act shall be carried out for the purposes of checking the availability and adequacy of reception facilities and audit of such pollution containment equipment as may be specified by the Central Government which shall include but not be limited to- (a) adequacy and operational status of port reception facilities as per Annexes I, II, IV, V and VI of the MARPOL Convention; (b) implementation and effectiveness of the plan; (c) compliance with national environmental norms for disposal of waste received from vessels, including verification of compliance with domestic waste management rules under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 (29 of 1986) and other applicable domestic environmental regulations, in addition to relevant International Conventions; (d) compliance and operational readiness, to the extent applicable to port-side facilities and obligations in accordance with Ballast Water Management Convention. (2) Every port shall undergo an audit at least once in every two years, in accordance with the standards as may be specified by the Central Government from time to time and in accordance with the guidelines issued by Director General of Maritime Administration. (3) Such biennial audit shall be conducted by a duly authorised auditor of the Director General of Maritime Administration. (4) The audit report shall be submitted by the auditing authority to the Central Government which shall include the following details, namely:— (a) brief summary of the port's overall compliance level; (b) responsible parties, time-bound corrective action plan and proposed completion dates, within such period— (i) not exceeding ninety days with details of immediate action that needs to be undertaken; or (ii) such extended period as may be permitted by the auditing authority for reasons to be recorded in writing. Explanation. For the purposes of this sub-rule, the expressions- (a) "auditing authority" means the authority or any person, body, or agency authorised by the authority or the Central Government to conduct an audit under these rules; (b) "corrective action plan" means the plan produced in response to the audit observations, deficiencies, and which contains pathways for rectifications identified in accordance with the scope of the audit. (5) The port shall facilitate the audit process by providing access to such information and records as is required to be maintained under the Act and the rules made thereunder, and shall retain the audit report and related records for at least seven years. 20. Reporting of pollution incidents–(1) Every port shall report to the Government of any actual or threatened pollution incident within port limits as required under sub-section (1) of section 44, as soon as practicable after becoming aware of such incident. (2) For the purposes of sub-rule (1)- (a) the master shall make an initial verbal report without delay, and in any case within fifteen minutes of detection of pollution incident; (b) a Coastal Pollution Incident Report in Form-II shall be submitted by the port within two hours of the incident, or as soon as practicable if containment measures are ongoing; (c) a detailed supplementary report shall be submitted by the port within twenty-four hours if any further information becomes available subject to any such inquiries that the port may conduct with all relevant stakeholders. (3) The initial verbal report under clause (a) of sub-rule (2) shall be made to- (a) Vessel Traffic Service or Port Control on the designated Very High Frequency channel; or (b) the designated port officer on the emergency pollution hotline; or (c) Directorate General of Maritime Administration Communication Centre in case of discharge, escape, leakage or spillage of oil, oily mixture, oily residue. (4) The report referred to in clause (b) of sub-rule (2) shall be submitted- (a) through the Port Community System or Maritime Single Window; or (b) via the port's online pollution reporting portal; (c) by email to the designated pollution reporting address; or (d) by such electronic or other communication mechanisms as may be specified by the Central Government. (5) If electronic submission is unavailable, a signed physical copy shall be submitted to the conservator within three hours of system restoration. CHAPTER IV MISCELLANEOUS 21. Notified navigable rivers or channels leading to ports. – (1) While notifying a navigable river or channel leading to ports under sub-clause (iii) of clause (a) of sub-section (3) of section 1 of the Act, the Government shall— (a) ensure that the spatial extent of the application of the Act to navigable rivers or channels leading to such port is clearly and precisely defined for purposes of safety, navigation, environmental protection and levy of fees and charges; (b) secure consistency between port limits, channels leading to such port and adjoining navigable waterways, and to avoid ambiguity or overlap in jurisdiction among authorities. (2) The notification of navigable rivers or channels referred to in sub-rule (1) shall contain the details specified in Form-III. (3) The port may communicate the notification electronically to such authorities, as it may deem fit. Explanation.— For the purposes of this rule, the expression "navigable river or channels leading to such port" means any river, estuary, backwater, creek, canal, fairway, channels, or other waterway which- (i) is, or is intended to be, regularly used by vessels navigating to or from a port; and (ii) lies outside, or partly outside, the port limits as notified under sub-section (1) of section 11 of the Act. 22. Declaration of new port and alteration of port limits– (1) For the purposes of declaring any new port under sub- section (2) of section 11 of the Act, the Government shall ensure compliance of the following norms by the ports, namely:- (a) there is demonstrable requirement for additional port capacity or specialised facilities in the region, having regard to- (i) projected cargo and passenger demand and hinterland connectivity; (ii) the national perspective plan and any regional or sectoral plans derived therefrom; (iii) the potential to improve logistics efficiency, reduce turnaround time and support national development priorities; and (iv) proposal being supported by a preliminary assessment of financial viability, including capital and operating cost estimates and possible funding sources. Explanation. For the purposes of sub-clause (ii), the expression “national perspective plan" means the plan formulated by the Central Government under sub-section (1) of section 12 of the Act; (b) the proposed new port does not result in unnecessary duplication of capacity in close proximity to existing ports, and, where multiple ports exist in a region, the proposal indicates how the new port will complement and not materially impair the viability of existing facilities except, where justified in the wider public interest; (c) the location and intended operations of the proposed port are consistent with national security, coastal security, and defence considerations, and the proposal incorporates the views of the competent security and defence authorities. (2) The Central Government may for reasons to be recorded in writing, relax one or more of the norms specified in sub-rule (1) in exceptional cases where strategic, security or other public interest considerations so warrant. (3) Prior to notifying alteration of port limits under section sub-section (2) of section 11 of the Act, the Government shall ensure— (a) strategic and economic justification; (b) security and defence considerations; (c) navigational safety impact; (d) maritime zoning; (e) environmental protection; and (f) any other norm as the Government may specify. (4) Every notification- (a) declaring a new port shall be in Form-IV; and (b) altering port limits shall be in Form-V. 23. Removal or alteration of obstruction. The removal or alteration of any obstruction shall be planned and conducted to- (a) ensure navigational safety; (b) protect port operations; (c) minimise risk to life, property, and the environment; (d) respect existing lawful rights of the owner of the obstruction, subject to the necessity of safeguarding navigation and port safety. (2) Where the obstruction exists, the conservator shall issue a written notice to such owner. (3) The conservator may, where appropriate and having regard to the urgency of the situation convene a consultation meeting or technical discussion with the owner of the obstruction and other concerned stakeholders; or seek the views of the relevant authority or other competent body. (4) The conservator shall, as far as practicable, adopt a manner of removal or alteration which— (a) minimises the impact to the lawful owner of the obstruction; (b) minimises disruption to vessel traffic and essential port services; (c) seeks to avoid or reduce secondary environmental impacts; and (d) is compatible with future development plans and designated uses of the port and waterway. (5) Where an obstruction poses an immediate risk to the environment, life, navigation, port infrastructure, the conservator may, for reasons to be recorded in writing, take such urgent steps as are necessary. (6) The conservator shall, as soon as practicable after such emergency action, inform the owner of the obstruction, where identifiable, of the actions taken and reasons therefore, and proceed to determine compensation, if any, in accordance with the sub-rule (7). (7) The determination of reasonable compensation shall be made having due regard to factors such as the age, design life, structural condition and remaining service life of the obstruction at the time of removal or alteration, financial implications and such other relevant facts and circumstances of the case which shall be recorded in writing. (8) The conservator may require the owner of the obstruction to submit relevant documents and data necessary for assessing compensation as early as possible and, in any case, without delay. (9) The conservator may seek the assistance of independent technical, financial or valuation experts to arrive at a reasoned recommendation on compensation. 24. Expenses for loss, destruction or damage suffered by port- (1) Any person responsible for loss, destruction or damage caused to port or port facilities under sub-section (2) of section 26 shall be liable to bear the expenses covering full cost of restoring such property or facilities, as far as practicable, back to the condition existing immediately prior to such loss, destruction or damage the incident, so that the Authority does not incur any loss. Explanation.- For the purposes of this sub-rule, the expression “expenses” means the reasonable costs, charges, and expenditures including— (i) repair or replacement costs; (ii) cost of temporary works and emergency measures; and (iii) professional and survey fees. (2) Depending on the nature, severity and technical complexity of the loss, destruction or damage, the conservator may direct a preliminary inspection to be conducted to identify the extent of such loss, destruction or damage or detailed condition survey or engineering assessment to be undertaken, as the case may be. 25. Vessel arrival report. - The owner, agent or master shall report arrival of the vessel as required under section 49 of the Act which shall be in accordance with the Maritime Single Window or any other system designated by the Central Government. Explanation.- For the purpose of this rule, the expression "designated system" means any other electronic system, designated by the Central Government. 26. Appointment of person for imposition of penalty. – Where the conservator is the body of persons, the Board shall appoint a person from amongst such body of persons by way of a general or special resolution as required under sub-section (2) of section 54 of the Act. 27. Report of incident. – (1) The designated incident reporting officer shall ensure that particulars of any incident as required under section 67 of the Act are obtained without delay from— (a) owner, agent, or master of any vessel involved in the incident; and (b) any terminal, facility or port service provider directly affected by, or involved in, the incident, and shall prepare a report of such incident in writing. Explanation.- For the purpose of this sub-rule, the expression “designated incident reporting officer” means the deputy conservator or an officer of equivalent rank, at the port; (2) The written report referred to in sub-rule (1) shall be submitted electronically to Directorate General of Maritime Administration Communication Centre as soon as reasonably practicable and in any event, not later than twenty-four hours from the occurrence of the incident. (3) Every port shall maintain an electronic incident register recording all incidents reported under this rule, as well as all reports and any acknowledgements received thereof from Directorate General of Maritime Administration Communication Centre. 28. Shore based welfare services for seafarers. – (1) Ports shall follow the guidelines issued by the Director General of Maritime Administration in compliance with section 68 of the Act. (2) All shore-based welfare services shall be made available to seafarers without discrimination on the basis of gender, nationality, race, colour, sex or any other grounds recognised under applicable law or international maritime labour standards. (3) Ports shall make appropriate arrangements to facilitate reasonable access to shore-based welfare services having regard to security requirements, terminal location and operational constraints and ensure access to menstrual hygiene facilities for women seafarers. (4) Where terminals are remote or subject to high security restrictions, the port shall provide adequate measures including transport arrangements to ensure access to shore based welfare services. (5) Irrespective of port size and traffic, the shore based welfare services, in compliance with regulation 4.4. of Maritime Labour Convention, 2006, may include- (a) internet connectivity; (b) communication facilities such as Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards or top-up assistance; (c) transport arrangements to nearby urban centres on request and on grant of necessary clearance; (d) recreational and cultural support; (e) mental health counselling support; (f) medical assistance and facilitation; (g) emergency health services and support; (h) information on local laws, customs and emergency contacts; (i) foreign exchange conversion facility; and (j) information in relation to welfare Non-Governmental Organizations and legal support. (6) Ports shall provide information relating to the shore based welfare services through multilingual notices, maps, digital platforms or other appropriate means. 29. Consular and fair treatment support.– Ports shall facilitate access to consular and fair treatment mechanisms in coordination with competent authorities to the seafarers. 30. Compliance with international conventions. – Every port shall comply with such applicable conventions as required under section 72 of the Act in accordance with the directions of the Central Government. Schedule I- Model Receipt Format [See rule 11(2)] MAJOR PORT – RECEIPT OF FEES OR CHARGES • Receipt No.: • Date and Time: • Name of Payer or Agent: • Vessel Name or Type or Gross tonnage or Reference (if applicable): • Voyage Call Number: • Voyage Type: • Nature of Charge (with clause or tariff code): • Description of Service: • Amount (₹): • GST or Taxes (₹): • Total Amount Received (₹): • Mode of Payment: • Unique Transaction Reference or Transaction ID and name of the bank: • Issued By (Name, Designation): • Signature or Digital Authentication: SCHEDULE II [See rule 12(8)] Technical specifications for Port Reception Facilities 1. General Scope.— The technical and operational requirements for port reception facilities in ports to which these rules apply, shall be implemented in compliance with the guidelines on renewable energy integration issued by the Central Government. 2. Technical and Operational Standards.— Port reception facilities shall include, inter alia, the following technical standards, namely:— (a) sewage treatment facilities conforming to standards notified by the Central Pollution Control Board, including requirements relating to biochemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids and disinfection; (b) segregation of waste stream in accordance with the MARPOL Convention, including oily waste, sewage, garbage and hazardous or special waste categories; (c) provision for surge handling capacity to accommodate temporary increases in vessel traffic and peak berth occupancy. 3. Performance Metrics.— (1) Port reception facilities shall be available on a round-the-clock basis and operated in a manner that minimises delays attributable to waste delivery operations. (2) Port reception facilities shall meet annual adequacy targets, including uptime benchmarks, as may be specified under the Harit Sagar guidelines. (3) The implementation of the provisions of sub-paragraph (2) shall be subject to the Harit Sagar Guidelines, as issued by the Central Government from time to time. 4. Green Transition Infrastructure.— Port reception facilities shall, where applicable, include infrastructure for- (a) the safe handling and management of waste and residues arising from the use of alternative fuels; (b) the reception and management of waste arising from shore power systems, including transformer oils and related electrical waste; (c) the management of waste and residues arising from alternative fuel bunkering operations, including spill response residues. Schedule III [See rule 17(2)] Conditions and Parameters for Grant of Exemption from Waste Delivery Obligations 1. Demonstration of Storage Capacity.— The master shall furnish information demonstrating that the vessel has sufficient dedicated storage capacity for vessel-generated waste, including- (a) maximum approved storage capacity by waste category; (b) quantity of waste currently on board; (c) estimated waste generation until the next port of call; and (d) margin of safety retained. 2. Details of Next Port Reception Facilities.— The master shall identify the next port of call and provide- (a) confirmation of availability of relevant port reception facilities at such port, based on- (i) information published on the International Maritime Organisation Global Integrated Shipping Information System; or (ii) official publications of the port authority of the next port of call; and (b) the intended delivery plan at the next port. 3. Voyage Risk Factors.— In assessing exemption, the conservator shall have due regard to— (a) length and nature of the voyage; (a) type of vessel and propulsion system; (c) nature of cargo carried; and (d) waste categories presenting higher pollution risk. 4. Recording of satisfaction.— Any exemption granted under sub-rule (2) of rule 17 shall be recorded in writing and shall include- (a) waste categories covered; (b) quantities exempted; (c) validity limited to the specified voyage or port call; and (d) reasons for grant of such exemption. 5. Non-derogation.— Nothing in this Schedule shall be construed as permitting any discharge of vessel-generated waste into the sea in contravention of the MARPOL Convention. 6. Exemption.— The requirement for mandatory delivery of operational waste and cargo residues to port reception facilities under these rules shall not apply to inland waterway barges operating exclusively on inland waterways within the territory of India and engaged in short intra-river voyages between inland terminals, which do not undertake sea voyages and do not generate cargo residues comparable to ocean-going vessels, where the operational waste generated is negligible and capable of safe onboard storage: Provided that such vessels shall maintain suitable onboard holding arrangements and ensure that all such waste is retained onboard and disposed of through authorised onshore waste management systems in accordance with applicable law, and no discharge into inland waters occurs in contravention of these rules or any other law for the time being in force. Form - I [See rule 16(5)] ADVANCE WASTE NOTICE 1. Vessel Details o Name of Vessel: o International Maritime Organisation Number: o Flag: o Type of Vessel: o Gross Tonnage or Deadweight Tonnage: 2. Port Call Details o Last Port of Call: o Next Port of Call: o Estimated Time of Arrival (Local Time): o Estimated Time of Departure (Local Time): 3. Waste Onboard (MARPOL Annex-wise) o Annex I (Oily Waste): o Annex II [Noxious Liquid Substances Residues): o Annex IV (Sewage): o Annex V (Garbage Categories A–G): o Annex VI (Scrubber wash water residue or ozone-depleting substances): 4. Waste to be Discharged at Port (Specify type and quantity) 5. Waste Retained Onboard 6. Last Waste Discharge (Port and Date) 7. Request for Reception Facility ☐ Yes ☐ No Type of Facility Required: 8. Certification by Master I hereby certify that the information provided above is true and complete. o Name of Master: o Signature: o Date: Form-II [See rule 20(2)(b)] COASTAL POLLUTION INCIDENT REPORT 1. Vessel / Facility Details – Vessel Name: – International Maritime Organisation Number: – Flag: – Agent: _ 2. Type of Pollution Threat – Oil or Oily mixture or Sludge – Noxious liquid substance – Chemical or Hazardous and Noxious Substances – Sewage – Garbage (specify category) – Other harmful substance: 3. Estimated Quantity Released / Threatened 4. Location (Coordinates/Berth) 5. Time of Incident 6. Cause (if known) 7. Actions Taken Containment booms deployed ☐ Scuppers plugged ☐ Pumping stopped ☐ Emergency pollution control activated ☐ Notification to terminal or port ☐ 8. Impact Assessment (coastal waters / fisheries / marine life) 9. Attachments – Photos/videos ☐ – Log extracts ☐ – Sounding records ☐ – Tank data ☐ 10. Certification by Master I certify that the information provided is true. Name: __________ Signature: __________ Date: __________ Form - III [See rule 21(2)] FORM FOR NOTIFICATION OF NAVIGABLE RIVERS OR CHANNELS LEADING TO A PORT 1. Title of the Notification (Short descriptive title indicating the designated stretch of river/ channel) 2. Description of the River/Channel Declared as Navigable Access Route (a) Name of River/Channels leading to a port: (b) Geographical coordinates and any other components, as may be applicable: • Latitude: __________ Longitude: __________ 3. Navigational Aids and Markings (as applicable): 4. Purpose of Notification: 5. Instructions (if any): 6. Date of Commencement: The notification shall come into force on __________ 7. Authority Issuing the Notification: Name of Department/Ministry: __________ Signature: __________ Name: __________ Designation: __________ Seal: __________ Date: __________ Place: __________ Notes (for the Gazette printer / Port Authority use) 1. The filled form must be published verbatim in the Official Gazette. 2. A digital version of this form shall be uploaded on Government and concerned port website Form - IV [See rule 22(4)(a)] FORM FOR NOTIFICATION OF A NEW PORT 1. Title of Notification 2. Name of the New Port 3. Geospatial Description of Port Limits (a) Landward Boundary (if applicable) Description and coordinates: (b) Seaward Boundary Coordinates: • Point 1: Lat ___ Long ___ • Point 2: Lat ___ Long ___ • Point 3: Lat ___ Long ___ (Additional points may be added as required) (c) Channels leading to port and Navigational Access: 4. Hydrographic and Navigational Features: (Attach charts/maps if required) 5. Purpose and Applicability: (Describe port functions: cargo handling, passenger operations, offshore terminals, etc.) 6. Effective Date of Notification: 7. Issuing Authority: Name: Designation: Department: Signature: Seal: Date: Place: Form - V [See rule 22(4)(b)] FORM FOR ALTERATION OF PORT LIMITS 1. Title of Notification: 2. Name of the Port: 3. Nature of Alteration: Extension of limits Reduction of limits Modification of coordinates Inclusion of new channels leading to port/anchorage Exclusion of area Other (specify): 4. Revised Coordinates of Port Limits: 5. Justification for Alteration: (Expansion: dredging, new terminals; Restriction: safety, environmental zones, etc.) 6. Maps/Charts Attached: 7. Effective Date: 8. Issuing Authority: Name: Designation: Signature: Seal: Date: Place: [F. No. PD-24015/1/2025-PD-I/E-378148] PRAVEEN P. NAIR, Jt. Secy.