Report details of inoperable and abandoned ships in Indian waters: DGMA directs ports
Kolkata: The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has issued a directive to all major and non-major ports across India, seeking detailed reports on all vessels that are abandoned, detained, arrested, immobilised, disabled, laid-up, stranded, grounded, drifting, unmanned, or otherwise unable to operate safely within port limits and Indian territorial waters.
In a formal notice issued on Tuesday, the maritime authority stated that the exercise aims to safeguard seafarer welfare, protect port infrastructure, ensure maritime security, and prevent environmental hazards in Indian waters.
“DGMA considers it necessary to maintain an updated picture of vessels that are abandoned, detained, arrested, immobilised, disabled, laid-up, stranded, grounded, drifting, unmanned or otherwise unable to operate safely,” the authority noted.
It highlighted that depending on a vessel’s condition, location, cargo, and operational state, such ships risk endangering personnel, disrupting navigation, damaging port infrastructure, and posing environmental threats.
The reporting mandate applies to all vessels matching these categories regardless of whether crew members remain on board or whether a ship has been formally declared abandoned.
Port authorities have been given a 15-day deadline to submit consolidated records covering their respective jurisdictions, including port limits, berths, anchorages, and approaches.
Under the notification, ports must provide comprehensive data for each vessel, including: Vessel particulars, current location, operational status, and the duration/reasons for its condition; complete contact details of the shipowner, operator, manager, and local agent; details regarding the number of personnel on board and any seafarer welfare concerns; onboard operational condition, cargo type, and bunker fuel levels; specific threats to safe navigation, port operations, infrastructure, security, or the marine environment; and enforcement actions taken to date, alongside court or statutory detention details.
The DGMA emphasised that submitting this information remains without prejudice to ongoing court orders or statutory directions.
Additionally, ports have been instructed to immediately report any fresh incidents involving vessel distress, life safety, or environmental risks, alongside providing periodic updates on existing cases until resolved.
Port authorities with no inoperable vessels within their jurisdiction are required to submit a mandatory ‘NIL’ report.