The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPS&W) on July 08, 2026, issued the Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution by Harmful Substances Carried by Sea in Packaged Form) Rules, 2026.
They shall come into force on July 17, 2026.
The following has been stated:
• The Rules prohibit the carriage of harmful substances in packaged form unless carried in accordance with the prescribed provisions and the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code. Empty packages that previously contained harmful substances are also treated as harmful unless completely free from harmful residues.
• The Rules prohibit the jettisoning of harmful substances except where necessary to ensure the safety of the vessel or to save lives at sea. Leakage or washings overboard shall be managed using appropriate safety measures based on the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the substances without compromising vessel safety.
• Vessels entering Indian ports or offshore terminals will be subject to Port State Control inspections. If the master or crew are found unfamiliar with pollution prevention procedures, authorities may conduct detailed inspections and detain the vessel until all deficiencies are rectified.
• The Rules prescribe detailed technical requirements for packing, marking, labelling, documentation, stowage, and quantity limitations. Packages shall display the correct technical name, IMDG Code number, and marine pollutant marking. Shipping documents shall include a declaration that the cargo is properly packed, labelled, and suitable for safe carriage, while vessels shall maintain manifests or stowage plans showing the location of harmful substances and make them available to port authorities before departure.
• Any violation of these Rules attracts penalties under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025. Where no specific penalty exists under the Act, offenders are liable to a penalty of up to ₹50,000, with an additional penalty of up to ₹5,000 per day for continuing violations. Vessel owners and masters shall also rectify non-compliance even after penalties are imposed.
[Notification no. - G.S.R. 596(E)]
