Indian Government May Give Local Vessels Some Time Before Fixing Their Age Caps
As the government is thinking of setting an age limit for vessels that operate in the Indian waters to establish overall safety and protect the marine environment from contamination owing to accidents, the Indian ministry of ports, shipping and waterways is open to accepting proposals that seek additional time for the existing ships to abide by the new regulations.
Two government officials aware of the development said while the centre is planning on launching a fitness regime for vessels, it may also permit older ships to continue operating if they pass the fitness certification, allowing more time for the operators to focus on upgrading their fleets.
In a representation to Sarbananda Sonowal, the Union minister of India, the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry recommended a calibrated introduction of age limits for vessels. It mentioned that strict health check rules might be formulated in consultation with the class and industry authorities for the ship above a particular cut-off age.
The industry body also added that the vessels must be permitted to function provided they meet the requirements of the health check regime. This will help incentivize firms to spend money on older ships to ensure they can operate safely.
Currently, the age limit for registering vessels operating in Indian waters is 25 years. However, there is no age restriction once the vessels are recorded. The government is striving to plug the loophole.
The discussion aims to lower the registration age and fix some age restrictions for foreign and Indian vessels operating here. Besides, the industry body has also recommended introducing a sunset clause to phase out old ships, say, three or four years from the date of the age circular coming into effect. It added that this would give vessel owners adequate time to develop contingency plans and renew their fleets.
Considering that the shipping business is capital-intensive, it might not be plausible for firms to renew fleets if they are not permitted sufficient time to replace older vessels.
If vessel operators are compelled to replace old ships within a short time, second-hand ones will be in more demand, which will be harmful to the whole industry, the lobby explained.
Per a second official, new vessels take about 18-30 months to build, based on the kind of vessel.
Hence, the sunset clause before operationalizing age limitations will give the necessary breather to ship owners.
References: Live Mint, India Shipping News
Shipping News You Would Like:
Disclaimer :
The information contained in this website is for general information purposes only. While we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.
In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this website.
Do you have info to share with us ? Suggest a correction
Latest Shipping News You Would Like:
Crew Member of MTM Dublin Tanker Falls Overboard Near Boston Harbour
U.S Navy Spends $175 Million On An Old Ship That May Never Return To Sea, Angering Taxpayers
Russia Launches Attacks On Ukraine After Alleged Death Of Black Sea Fleet Commander
Cruise Ship Captain Sentenced To 5 Years In Prison For Negligence That Killed 27 People
ABS and AL Group To Study Ultramax Bulker Methanol Fuel Conversion
Get the Latest Maritime News Delivered to Your Inbox!
Our free, fast, and fun newsletter on the global maritime industry, delivered everyday.