The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) on October 14, 2026, issued the Merchant Shipping (Bureau of Port Security) Rules, 2026.
They shall come into force on October 16, 2026.
The following has been stated:
• The rules apply to the functioning and operations of the Bureau of Port Security for safeguarding port facilities and vessels engaged in vessel-port interface activities. Under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025, the Bureau is responsible for establishing and enforcing security standards, risk-based categorisation of port facilities, approval and monitoring of port facility security plans, minimum security infrastructure requirements, and engagement of private security agencies. It shall collect, maintain and exchange security-related information, coordinate with Central and State Governments, port authorities and maritime law enforcement agencies, and issue security guidelines covering access control, surveillance, screening, cybersecurity, emergency response and risk assessments.
• The Bureau will also oversee security training and capacity-building programmes, maintain security manuals and standard operating procedures, conduct periodic audits and inspections, review security plans and incident reports, and recommend corrective measures. It shall establish response mechanisms corresponding to security levels prescribed under Section 129(3) of the Act, coordinate security drills and exercises, and maintain records of security measures and incidents.
• The Bureau will function under the administrative control of the Central Government and comply with applicable international maritime obligations, including the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea, 1974 (SOLAS) and the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code). The Central Government may issue directions to resolve inconsistencies between maritime safety and security requirements.
[Notification No. - G.S.R. 883(E)]
