The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) on July 21, 2026, issued the Indian Ports Rules, 2026.
The provisions of –
(a) these rules shall apply to ––
(i) all major ports; and
(ii) part or parts of the notified navigable rivers or channels leading to the ports as notified by the Government under sub-clause (iii) of clause (a) of sub-section (3) of section 1of the Act;
(b) rules 12 to 23, rule 25, rules 26 to 29 and rule 30 shall apply to ports other than major ports;
The notification lays down provisions regarding appointment, service conditions, and powers of port officials, along with operational and environmental responsibilities of ports. The Central Government may depute officers to the Maritime State Development Council, and their service conditions will be governed by applicable rules. Ports are also empowered to appoint additional officers for functions such as marine operations, safety, and pollution control, with defined pay, service conditions, and delegation of powers.
A major focus of the rules is on environmental protection and waste management at ports. Every port is required to establish adequate port reception facilities for handling vessel-generated waste in line with international standards such as the MARPOL Convention. These facilities must ensure proper segregation, safe handling, and environmentally sound disposal of waste, including oil residues, sewage, garbage, and air pollution-related substances.
The rules also mandate the preparation of a port waste reception and handling plan, which must include waste management procedures, infrastructure details, stakeholder consultations, and compliance mechanisms. This plan is to be periodically reviewed, published electronically, and communicated to vessels, along with environmental and safety requirements.
Additionally, vessels are required to submit an advance waste notice prior to arrival and must deliver waste to port facilities unless exempted under specified conditions. Ports must issue waste delivery receipts, maintain records, and ensure compliance to prevent marine pollution and unlawful discharge into the sea.
[Notification No. G.S.R. 645(E)]
