The Ministry of Ports, Shipping And Waterways (MoPSW) on March 11, 2026, issued the Marine Aids to Navigation (Vessel Traffic Services) Rules, 2026.
The rules classify Vessel Traffic Services (VTS) into two categories: port or harbor vessel traffic services and coastal vessel traffic services. Port or harbor VTS operate within the limits of a port or harbor and are established and managed by authorized service providers with approval from the Government of India. Coastal VTS cover coastal waters, including areas of common interest between adjoining ports, to support the safe and efficient movement of vessels. The Central Government may establish these services where the volume of vessel traffic or the level of navigational risk makes them necessary.
The Central Government will appoint a Competent Authority through an official notification to oversee vessel traffic services. The appointed officer must have at least five years of professional experience in the operation and maintenance of VTS. This authority will perform its duties under the direction of the Central Government and will be responsible for authorizing VTS providers and reviewing their proposals for establishing, modifying, or expanding services.
In addition, the Competent Authority will help develop standards and guidelines for VTS operations in line with recommendations from the International Maritime Organization and the International Organisation for Marine Aids to Navigation. It will also coordinate with maritime agencies, conduct inspections and audits to ensure compliance, maintain records and operational data, promote uniform systems across VTS areas, and advise the government on the use of VTS by vessels navigating within designated service areas.
The said draft shall be taken into consideration after the expiry of a period of thirty days from the date on which copies of this notification, as published in the Official Gazette, are made available to the public;
Objections or suggestions, if any, to these draft rules may be addressed to the Director General, Directorate of Lighthouses and Lightships, Ministry of Ports Shipping and Waterways, A-13, Sector 24, Noida - 201301, or by email at [email protected], within the period specified above;
The objections or suggestions which may be received from any person with respect to the said draft rules, within the period so specified, will be considered by the Central Government.
[Notification No. G.S.R. 172(E)]
