IWAI Organizes Workshop on Inland Vessels Act, 2021 to Enhance Understanding and Implementation

New Delhi: The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, organized a comprehensive workshop today at the India Habitat Centre in New Delhi to improve understanding of the Inland Vessels (IV) Act, 2021, and its associated rules. The event aimed to clarify key provisions of the Act and update stakeholders, including representatives from States, Union Territories, Maritime Boards, and other related sectors, on the new concept of a central database and e-portal for inland vessels.

In his inaugural address, Vijay Kumar, Chairman of IWAI, emphasized that the workshop was designed to ensure all participants gain a clear understanding of the Act’s various provisions and its impact on the inland waterway industry. “This workshop will provide clarity on the new provisions, ensuring that stakeholders across the country are well-informed about the centralized database and the digitalization of inland vessel management,” he said.

The Inland Vessels Act, originally enacted in 1917, had become outdated after over a century of service, necessitating a comprehensive review to align it with the current and future needs of the industry. The amended IV Act of 2021 ensures uniformity in rules for inland vessels across the country, extending to all inland waters, including national waterways.

A key feature of the IV Act, 2021, is the introduction of a Central Database/e-portal for vessel registration and crew management. This initiative, in line with the Digital India campaign, will enhance transparency, streamline processes, and improve data access across the sector. The Act also covers various essential aspects of inland vessels, including their survey, registration, classification, pollution prevention, wreck and salvage procedures, insurance, and more. Notably, it also takes into account the evolving needs of vessel construction and usage, incorporating provisions for technologically advanced Special Category Vessels.

A significant change introduced by the Act is the centralization of vessel survey and registration processes. Under the new framework, certificates of survey and registration are valid throughout the country, eliminating the need for separate endorsements from individual states. This shift makes the process more user-friendly and supports the government’s efforts to promote Ease of Doing Business.

The IV Act establishes a centralized framework to replace state-specific regulations. While the central government will set standards for vessel classification, registration, and special category vessel identification, states will be responsible for implementing these provisions in compliance with the prescribed national standards. Additionally, the Act emphasizes pollution prevention measures, including waste management and eco-friendly operations for vessels.

Vijay Kumar also highlighted that the efforts to streamline registration and certification processes, along with the creation of a central database, are vital steps toward realizing the vision of PM Gati Shakti, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal. These initiatives are expected to significantly contribute to the development of national waterways and the overall growth of the inland water transport sector.