The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW), on June 25, 2026, notified the Merchant Shipping (Load Line) Rules, 2026 under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025, superseding the corresponding provisions under the Merchant Shipping (Load Line) Rules, 1979 for new vessels. The Rules came into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette.
The Rules apply to Indian vessels meeting the prescribed length or gross tonnage thresholds, as well as foreign vessels covered by the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, while operating in Indian waters or ports. They require Indian vessels engaged on domestic voyages to carry an India Load Line Certificate and those engaged on international voyages to carry an International Load Line Certificate, as applicable. Existing vessels constructed before the commencement of the Rules will continue to be governed by the Merchant Shipping (Load Line) Rules, 1979.
The Rules incorporate the requirements of the International Convention on Load Lines, 1966, as amended, and prescribe the technical standards, certification process, and load line assignment requirements through detailed schedules to enhance vessel safety, seaworthiness, and compliance with international maritime standards.
[Notification No. G.S.R. 519(E)]
