Draft rules proposed to be made by

REGD. No. D. L.-33004/99 The Gazette of India CG-DL-E-23012026-269551 EXTRAORDINARY PART II—Section 3—Sub-section (i) PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY No. 57] NEW DELHI, FRIDAY, JANUARY 23, 2026/MAGHA 3, 1947 MINISTRY OF PORTS, SHIPPING AND WATERWAYS NOTIFICATION New Delhi, the 23rd January, 2026 G.S.R. 58(E).-Draft rules proposed to be made by (i) the Central Government in exercise of the powers conferred under section 76(2) read with section 7(2), 18(2), 18(3), 18(6), 20(5), 24(2), 26(2), 48(2), 54(2), 72; and (ii) the Central Government in consultation with the State Governments, in exercise of the powers conferred under section 78(2) read with sections 1(3)(a)(iii), 11(2), 36, 38(1), 38(3), 39, 40(1), 40(2), 42(1), 44(1), 49, 67, 68 of the Indian Ports Act, 2025 (27 of 2025), on or after the date of coming into force of the said Act, are hereby published for the information of all persons likely to be affected thereby; and notice is hereby given that the said draft rules shall be taken into consideration after 22nd February, 2026. Objections and suggestions, if any, may be addressed to Shri Naveen Kumar, Under Secretary to the Government of India, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Room No. 547, 5th Floor, Transport Bhawan, Parliament Street, New Delhi – 110001 or by email at (uspd-psw@gov.in and sopd1-psw@gov.in) on or before the 22nd February, 2026. The objections and suggestions which may be received from any person with respect to the said draft rules before the expiry of the period specified above shall not be attributed publicly to the persons submitting the same and shall be held in a fiduciary capacity, to enable stakeholders to provide their views freely, and shall be duly considered by the Central Government before finalisation of the rules. DRAFT RULES CHAPTER I - PRELIMINARY 1. Short Title, Commencement and Applicability. 1. These rules may be called the Indian Port Rules, 2026. 2. They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette. 3. Chapter I shall be applicable to all ports to which the Act applies, whereas other Chapters under these rules shall apply to ports in such manner: a. to major ports, all rules, made hereunder; b. rules made under section 78(2) i.e., rules 12 to 46, rule 55, rules 57 to 66 and rule made under section 76(2) i.e., rule 67. 2. Definitions. In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires— a. "Act" means the Indian Ports Act, 2025 (27 of 2025); b. “Advance Waste Notice” or “AWN” 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 under section 3(3) of the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 (24 of 2025); d. “arrival report” means the information required to be furnished by the owner, agent or master of a vessel under section 49 of the Act and in accordance with these rules; e. "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; f. “corrective action plan” means the plan prescribed under rule 33 of these rules and is a plan produced in response to the audit observations, deficiencies, and which contains pathways for rectifications identified in accordance with the scope of the audit; g. “designated incident reporting officer” means the deputy conservator or an officer of equivalent rank, at the port; h. “designated system” means the maritime single window or any other electronic system, designated by the Central Government; i. “expenses” means the reasonable costs, charges, and expenditures which, under section 26(2) of the Act, may include: i. repair or replacement costs, ii. temporary works and emergency measures, iii. professional and survey fees, and iv. other related costs as provided in these rules; j. “health officer” means the officer appointed under section 24 of the Act; k. “incident" means any incident referred to in section 67 of the Act; l. “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; m. "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 section 11(1); n. “national perspective plan" means the plan formulated by the Central Government under section 12(1) of the Act; o. "owner of the 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; p. "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; 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; q. "port waste reception and handling plan” or “plan” means a plan prepared and implemented under section 38 of the Act; r. "receipt" means a formal acknowledgement issued as proof of payment of fees or other charges in accordance with section 48 of the Act; s. "shore-based welfare facilities and services" means the facilities and services contemplated under Regulation 4.4 of the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 and detailed in the DG Shipping Welfare Guidelines as updated from time to time; t. "Waste Delivery Receipt” or “WDR” means receipt issued by a port acknowledging receipt of waste from a vessel by a reception facility in accordance with section 40(2). CHAPTER II – ADMINISTRATION A. Salary and allowances and other conditions of service under section 7(2) 3. Appointment. 1. The Council may ordinarily be staffed by officers and employees made available or deputed by the Central Government under section 7(1) of the Act. 2. The pay, allowances, and other conditions of service of the officers and employees of the Council appointed through deputation under sub-rule (2) shall be regulated in accordance with the applicable Parent Cadre Service Rules or Central Government rules and the allowances admissible to the corresponding grades, as revised or amended from time to time. B. Other officers of the port to be appointed under section 18(2) and the terms and conditions of their service under section 18(3) 4. Appointment of other officers at the port. 1. Every port may, in addition to a conservator and harbour master, appoint officers to discharge duties provided under sub-rule (2). 2. The officers appointed under sub-rule (1) shall discharge functions 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. 3. The appointment to the posts of port officers shall be as per recruitment regulations of the port unless directed otherwise in this behalf by the Central Government. 5. Pay and allowances of port officers. The pay and allowances of port officers under this rule shall be as determined by the Central Government. 6. Conditions of service of port officers. The other conditions of service of port officers 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 directed otherwise in this behalf by the Central Government. 7. Power to relax rules in relation to classification, appointment and eligibility of other officers. The Central Government may relax any provision of these rules for a class or category of officers for reasons recorded in writing. C. Powers to be delegated by the conservator and the persons to whom such powers may be delegated under section 18(6) 8. Delegation of powers of the conservator. 1. The conservator may delegate to any officer(s) all or any of its powers, duties, and functions under the Act. 2. Any authorisation under sub-rule (1) above shall be: a. in writing; b. specify the nature and extent of delegation in each case; where the conservator is a body of persons, be passed by a general or special resolution of such body. 3. The conservator retains 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. D. Qualifications, experience and other terms and conditions of service of the health officer under section 24(2) 9. Method of appointment and conditions of service of health officer. 1. There shall be a health officer for every major port. 2. The health officer shall possess such qualification, experience and be subject to such other terms and conditions of service as may be prescribed by the Central Government for Port Health Organisation. 3. The Health Officer shall discharge all health-related functions at the port as are assigned under the Act or by directions of the Central Government, including compliance with International Health Regulations, 2005. E. Form and manner of receipt of fees or other charges under section 48(2) 10. Obligation to issue receipt. Every authorised officer under section 48 of the Act to collect any fee or other charge shall issue a receipt acknowledging such payment. 11. Form and manner of issuance of receipt. 1. All receipts issued shall contain particulars specified in Schedule I. 2. A duplicate receipt may be issued upon written request of the payer, supported by identification and payment proof. 3. All receipts shall be maintained for a minimum period of seven years. 4. The authority may specify formats, digital templates, or standard operating procedures for issuance of receipts. CHAPTER III- POLLUTION F. The conditions subject to which port shall provide reception facilities under section 36 12. Establishment and adequacy of port reception facilities. 1. Every port shall establish, operate and maintain port reception facilities which are adequate to meet the needs of vessels normally 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. Port reception facilities shall be capable of receiving, segregating and handling, as applicable, vessel-generated waste and residues in accordance with- a. Annex I (oil, oily mixtures, sludge, bilge water, tank washings and exhaust gas cleaning system residues); b. Annex II (residues and mixtures containing noxious liquid substances); c. Annex IV (sewage, including treated and untreated black water and grey water); d. Annex V (garbage, segregated by category, including plastics, food waste, operational waste, cargo residues and e-waste); and e. Annex VI (ozone-depleting substances, exhaust gas cleaning system residues and other air pollution control residues) of the MARPOL Convention. 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. Port reception facilities shall be planned and operated on the basis of a demand-responsive approach, having regard to the information through AWNs, 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 notified 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. G. Form and manner of preparing port waste reception and handling plan under section 38(1) 13. Form and manner of plan. 1. The Port Waste Reception and Handling plan made in accordance with section 38(1) of the Act, shall, at minimum, contain the following - 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 specified 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 waste management 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 specified wastes are disposed of. 3. The plan may also include information to be made available to all harbour or terminal users: a. a brief reference to the fundamental importance of proper delivery of specified wastes; b. the location of waste reception facilities applicable to each berth, with a diagram or map; c. list of specified 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; and g. procedures for reporting alleged inadequacies of waste reception facilities. 4. The port may prepare the plan in consultation with stakeholders, including agents and may consider the maximum amount of waste that could be received. 5. After the approval of the Board, the plan shall be submitted to the Central Government, at the first instance and at every instance within three months of significant changes. 6. The plan may be prepared and maintained in electronic form, aligned with relevant formats adopted by the IMO. 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. H. The information about the port waste reception and handling plan and manner of communicating of such information under section 38(3) 15. Information to be communicated to vessels in relation to the plan. For the purposes of sub-section (3) of section 38, every port shall ensure that the following minimum information from its approved port waste reception and handling plan is communicated to vessels normally using that port: a. particulars of the port and plan in accordance with rule 13. b. contacts and emergency information— i. list of relevant contact points; ii. contact details of environmental or health officers responsible for waste- related incidents. c. complaint and feedback mechanism— i. procedure for vessels to lodge any complaints on alleged inadequacy or unavailability of reception facilities, with reference, where applicable, to the IMO reporting format and the designated contact point; ii. indication of how complaints will be acknowledged and addressed. d. environmental and safety requirements- 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. 16. Manner of communication of plan. The information referred to in rule 15 shall be communicated preferably electronically or in such manner as the port authority may determine. 17. Updates to plan. The information made available under rule 15 may be kept updated as far as practicable by the port authority to reflect material changes in the port waste reception and handling plan. 18. Maintenance of records in relation to information contained in plan. 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. J. Form, manner and time for submitting an advance waste notice under section 39 19. Obligation to submit AWN. 1. Every vessel intending to call at a port shall submit an AWN to the port of call. 2. The AWN shall be submitted irrespective of whether the vessel: a. intends to discharge waste; b. has no waste to discharge; or с. wishes to retain all waste on board. 20. Time for submission of the AWN. 1. An AWN shall be submitted: a. at least 24 hours before the vessel's arrival; or b. if the voyage is less than 24 hours, at the time of departure from the previous port; or c. if the port of call becomes known less than 24 hours in advance, as soon as the information becomes available. 2. Any material change in the information submitted may be updated as soon as practicable. 21. Form of AWN. The AWN shall be provided in alignment with Form AWN-1, as specified under these rules. 22. Manner of submission of AWN. The AWN shall be submitted in such manner, preferably by electronic means, as may be specified by the port authority. 23. Record keeping of AWN. 1. The port shall maintain records of AWNs for administrative and audit purposes, in such manner as it may determine. 2. AWNs shall be made available to any stakeholder as determined by the port authority. K. Conditions for delivery of vessel-generated waste under section 40(1) 24. 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. 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 appointed authorised person, in accordance with the parameters specified in Schedule III that such conditions are met, and where such satisfaction is duly recorded in writing: 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 IMO Global Integrated Shipping Information System or such other reliable and publicly accessible sources as may be recognised by the Central Government. 3. 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. 4. 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 с. ensure that any delay or alternative arrangement does not result in the unlawful discharge of vessel-generated waste into the sea. L. Form and manner of issuance of waste delivery receipt under section 40(2) 25. Obligation to issue WDR. 1. Every reception facility shall issue a WDR upon receiving waste from a vessel. 2. A copy of the WDR shall be provided to: a. the master, b. the agent of the vessel, and c. the port/authority. 26. Form of WDR. 1. The WDR shall be issued in accordance with particulars prescribed under this rule; 2. The form shall include: a. vessel particulars, including name and IMO number; b. waste categories delivered, referenced Annex-wise under MARPOL Convention; i. Annex I: Oily waste/sludge/bilge ii. Annex II: Noxious liquid residues iii. Annex IV: Sewage iv. Annex V: Garbage categories A–G v. Annex VI: 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. 27. Manner of issuance of WDR. 1. A WDR may be issued preferably electronically or in physical form. 2. The WDR shall be issued within one hour of completion of waste discharge from vessels. In the event that the receipt is not issued within one hour, the delay and the reasons thereof shall be recorded in writing. 3. All quantities in a WDR shall be expressed in metric units, and decimal notation shall be used consistently. 4. The WDR shall be completed in English, and a translation in any additional language may be provided for convenience; in case of inconsistency, the English text shall prevail. 28. Multiple or partial deliveries of waste. Where waste is delivered in more than one batch, separate WDRs may be issued. 29. Record-keeping requirements in relation to WDRs. The reception facility shall maintain digital or physical records of all WDRs and may share with any stakeholders as it may be required. 30. Integration with portal in relation to WDRs. The port or reception facility provider shall ensure that all data fields required to be uploaded in respect of the WDR are completed accurately and in a timely manner in accordance with section 43 of the Act. M. Intervals and manner of conducting audit of ports under section 42(1) 31. Audit areas. The audit shall be carried out for the purposes of checking the availability and adequacy of reception facilities and shall include audit of such pollution containment equipment as may be specified by the Central Government, and may include but not be limited to: a. adequacy and operational status of Port Reception Facilities for 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; d. compliance and operational readiness, to the extent applicable to port-side facilities and obligations in accordance with Ballast Water Management Convention. 32. Frequency of audits. 1. Every port shall undergo an audit at least once in every two years, in accordance with the standards as may be notified by the Central Government from time to time and in accordance with the guidelines issued by Director General of Maritime Administration. 2. Such biennial audit shall be conducted by a duly authorised auditor of Director General of Maritime Administration. 33. Reporting format and documentation for audit. 1. The audit report shall be submitted by the auditing authority to the Central Government and shall include the following: a. brief summary of the port's overall compliance level; b. time-bound corrective action plan, responsible parties, and proposed completion dates: i. not exceeding 90 days, and detailing the immediate action that needs to be undertaken; ii. or such extended period as may be permitted by the auditing authority for reasons to be recorded in writing. 34. Data management and confidentiality in relation to audits. The port shall, for the purposes of the audit conducted under section 42 of the Act, facilitate the audit process by providing access to such information and records as is required to be maintained under this Act and the rules made thereunder, and shall retain the audit report and related records for at least 7 years. N. Manner of reporting incidents under section 44(1) 35. Obligation to report pollution incidents. Every port shall report to the Government any actual or threatened pollution incident within port limits, as soon as practicable after becoming aware of such incident. 36. Time for reporting of pollution incidents. 1. For every report under rule 35: a. the master shall make an initial verbal report without delay, and in any case within 15 minutes of detection. b. a written report in Form CPIR-1 shall be submitted by the port within 2 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 24 hours if any further information becomes available subject to any such inquiries that the port may conduct with all relevant stakeholders. 37. Manner of reporting of pollution incidents. 1. The initial verbal report under rule 36 shall be made to— a. VTS/Port Control on the designated VHF channel; or b. the designated port officer on the emergency pollution hotline; с. Directorate General of Maritime Administration Communication (DGCOM) Centre in case of discharge, escape, leakage or spillage of oil, oily mixture, oily residue. 2. The written report under rule 36 shall be submitted- a. through the Port Community System (PCS) or Maritime Single Window; or b. via the port's online pollution reporting portal; or c. by email to the designated pollution reporting address. 3. If electronic submission is unavailable, a signed physical copy must be submitted to the conservator within 3 hours of system restoration. 38. Use of electronic portal. The Central Government may, for the purposes of these rules, specify an electronic or other communication mechanism for reporting pollution incidents under this rule. CHAPTER IV- MISCELLANEOUS O. Form and the manner of notification of any part of the navigable rivers or channels leading to ports under section 1(3)(a)(iii) 39. Objectives and guiding principles in relation to notification of a navigable river. 1. While notifying a navigable river or channels leading to such port under rule 40, regard shall be had to the following objectives and principles, namely: a. to ensure that the spatial extent of the Act's application 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. to secure consistency between port limits, channels leading to such port and adjoining navigable waterways, and to avoid ambiguity or overlap in jurisdiction among authorities. 40. Form of notification of navigable rivers or channels leading to a port. The form shall contain the particulars as specified in Form I. 41. Manner of publication of notification in relation to navigable rivers. 1. Every notification shall be— a. published in the Official Gazette of the Government; b. uploaded on the Official website of the Government; с. The port may communicate the notification electronically to such authorities, as it may deem fit. 42. Interpretation in relation to notification of navigable river. Where any question arises as to the interpretation of a notification issued under rule 40, the decision of the Central Government shall be final. P. Norms, form and manner of notifying a new port and altering port limits under section 11(2) 43. Norms for declaration of a new port. 1. A new port shall be declared only where the proposal satisfies the following norms, namely: a. Strategic and economic justification: 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; and iii. the potential to improve logistics efficiency, reduce turnaround time and support national development priorities; iv. proposal is supported by a preliminary assessment of financial viability, including capital and operating cost estimates and possible funding sources. 2. Non-duplication and complementarity: 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. 3. Security and defence considerations: 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. 4. 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. 44. Norms for alteration of port limits. Prior to notifying alteration of port limits, 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. 45. Manner of notification of new port and alteration of port limits. Every notification declaring a new port and every notification altering port limits shall be published in the Official Gazette, in the forms specified in Form II and Form III, respectively. 46. Interpretation of notification of new port and alteration of port limits. Where any question arises as to the interpretation of notification of new port or alteration of port limits, the decision of the Central Government shall be final. Q. Manner of removal or alteration of obstruction and factors for determining compensation under section 20(5) 47. Objectives and guiding principles in relation to removal or alteration of lawful obstruction. The removal or alteration of any obstruction shall be planned and conducted to: a. ensure navigational safety; b. protect port operations; с. 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. 48. Consultation and notice to owner of lawful obstruction. 1. Where the obstruction exists, the conservator shall issue a written notice to such owner. 2. 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. 49. Manner of removal or alteration of lawful obstruction. 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; с. seeks to avoid or reduce secondary environmental impacts; and d. is compatible with future development plans and designated uses of the port and waterway. 50. Emergency measures in relation to lawful obstruction. 1. Where an obstruction poses an immediate risk to the environment, life, navigation, port infrastructure, the conservator may, with reasons to be recorded in writing, take such urgent steps as are necessary. 2. 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 (1). 51. Factors for determining compensation payable to the owner of lawful obstruction. 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. 52. Documentation in relation to lawful obstruction. 1. 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. 2. The conservator may seek the assistance of independent technical, financial or valuation experts to arrive at a reasoned recommendation on compensation. • Factors to be considered by the conservator in determining the expenses to be paid under section 26(2) 53. Objectives and guiding principles for determination of expenses. 1. Any person responsible for damage, destruction or loss caused to port or port facilities shall be liable to bear the full cost of restoring such property or facilities, as far as practicable, to the condition existing immediately prior to the incident, so that the authority does not incur any loss. 2. The conservator shall impose such costs on a proportionate basis and the responsibility shall lie with the person liable under sub-section (1) of section 26 to prove otherwise. 54. Inspection for assessment of loss, destruction or damage. Depending on the nature, severity and technical complexity of the damage, the conservator may direct a preliminary inspection to be conducted to identify the nature and apparent extent of such loss or damage or detailed condition survey or engineering assessment to be undertaken, as the case may be. S. Form, manner and time for reporting arrival of vessel at port under section 49 55. Obligation to submit vessel arrival report in accordance with Maritime Single Window. The obligation to report an arrival under section 49 shall be in accordance with the Maritime Single Window or any other designated system as directed by the Central Government. T. Manner of appointment of conservator from a body of persons under section 54(2) 56. Appointment of person for imposition of penalty. For the purposes of sub-section (2) of section 54, the Board shall appoint a person from among such body of persons by way of a general or special resolution, as the case may be. U. Manner of reporting of incidents under section 67 57. Scope and obligation to report an incident. The designated incident reporting officer shall ensure that particulars of any incident under section 67 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. 58. Time and manner for reporting of incident by port. A written report under section 67 shall be submitted electronically to DGCOM as soon as reasonably practicable and in any event, no later than twenty-four hours from the time of the incident, including where the port is engaged in immediate response or safety operations, in such form, as may be directed by the Central Government. 59. Register and record-keeping in relation to reporting of incident. Every port shall maintain an electronic incident register recording all incidents reported under the above rule, as well as all reports and any acknowledgements received thereof from DGCOM. V. The provisions of shore based welfare services under section 68 60. Standards for facilitation. Ports shall, for the purposes of facilitating compliance with section 68, have due regard to any Guidelines issued by the Director General of Maritime Administration. 61. Non-discrimination at shore-based welfare facility. 1. All shore-based welfare facilities and services shall be made available to seafarers without discrimination on any grounds of gender, nationality, race, colour, sex or any other status recognised under applicable law or international maritime labour standards. 2. Ports shall make appropriate arrangements, to ensure access to menstrual hygiene facilities for women seafarers. 62. Accessibility and facilitation at port-based welfare facility. Ports shall endeavour to facilitate reasonable access to shore-based welfare services, having regard to security requirements, terminal location and operational constraints. 63. Remote and high-security terminals. Where terminals are remote or subject to high security restrictions, the port shall specify adequate measures including transport arrangements to ensure meaningful access to seafarer welfare services. 64. Services at shore-based welfare facility. Without prejudice to flexibility based on port size and traffic, shore-based welfare facilities and services having regard to regulation 4.4. of Maritime Labour Convention 2006 may include: a. internet connectivity; b. communication facilities including SIM cards or top-up assistance; c. transport arrangements to nearby urban centres on request and on grant of adequate clearance; d. recreational and cultural support; e. mental health counselling support; f. medical assistance and facilitation and emergency health services and support; g. information on local laws, customs and emergency contacts; h. information in relation to welfare NGOs and legal support. 65. Information dissemination in relation to shore-based welfare facility. Ports shall provide welfare information through multilingual notices, maps, digital platforms or other appropriate means. 66. Consular and fair treatment support. Ports shall facilitate access to consular and fair treatment mechanisms in coordination with competent authorities. W. Obligations under international conventions to be discharged by the ports under section 72. 67. Compliance with obligations under international conventions. Every port shall comply with such convention-related obligations as are applicable to it and in accordance with the directions of the Central Government. SCHEDULES and FORMS Schedule I-Model Receipt Format (See rule 11) MAJOR PORT AUTHORITY – RECEIPT OF FEES/CHARGES • Receipt No.: • Date and Time: • Name of Payer / Agent: • Vessel Name / Gross tonnage / Reference (if applicable): • Nature of Charge (with clause/tariff code): • Description of Service: • Amount (₹): • GST / Taxes (₹): • Total Amount Received (₹): • Mode of Payment: • UTR/Txn ID and name of the bank: • Issued By (Name, Designation): • Signature / Digital Authentication: SCHEDULE II (See rule 12) Technical specifications for port reception facilities 1. General Scope Schedule I defines the technical and operational requirements for Port Reception Facilities in ports to which these rules apply, and shall be implemented having regard to any guidelines on renewable energy integration issued by the Central Government. 2. Technical and Operational Standards PRFs shall include, inter alia, the following technical standards: 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 4. PRFs shall be available on a round-the-clock basis and operated in a manner that minimises delays attributable to waste delivery operations; 5. PRFs shall meet annual adequacy targets, including uptime benchmarks, as may be specified under the Harit Sagar guidelines. 6. The operation of sub-rule (2) shall be subject to such modifications as may be required pursuant to any amendment, revision, or supersession of the Harit Sagar Guidelines, as issued by the Central Government from time to time. 7. Green Transition Infrastructure 8. PRFs 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. FORM – AWN-1 (See Rule 21) ADVANCE WASTE NOTICE (AWN) 1. Vessel Details o Name of Vessel: o IMO Number: o Flag: o Type of Vessel: o GT/DWT: 2. Port Call Details o Last Port of Call: o Next Port of Call: o ETA (Local Time): o ETD (Local Time): 3. Waste Onboard (MARPOL Annex-wise) o Annex I (Oily Waste): o Annex II (NLS Residues): o Annex IV (Sewage): o Annex V (Garbage Categories A–G): o Annex VI (Scrubber wash water residue/ 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 o Yes o 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: Schedule III (See Rule 24) 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. Evidence of Next Port Reception Facilities a. The master shall identify the next port of call and provide: i. confirmation of availability of relevant port reception facilities at such port, based on: information published on the IMO 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; b. 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 rule 26(2) 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. 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. FORM- CPIR-1 (See Rule 36) COASTAL POLLUTION INCIDENT REPORT 1. Vessel / Facility Details Vessel Name: IMO Number: Flag: Agent: 2. Type of Pollution Threat Oil / Oily mixture / Sludge Noxious liquid substance Chemical/HNS 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 hereby certify that the information provided is true. Name: Date: Signature: FORM I (See Rule 40) 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 II (See Rule 45) 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 III (See Rule 45) FORM FOR ALTERATION OF EXISTING 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-PD1/E-378148] MUKESH MANGAL, Addl. Secy. Uploaded by Dte. of Printing at Government of India Press, Ring Road, Mayapuri, New Delhi-110064 and Published by the Controller of Publications, Delhi-110054.