DGMA sets 15-day deadline for ports to report vessels posing safety risks

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has directed Indian port authorities to submit details of abandoned, detained, arrested and non-operational vessels within 15 days of its circular’s issuance. The exercise aims to establish a consolidated record of ships that could affect seafarer welfare, navigation, port operations, infrastructure or the marine environment.

The notice, published on the regulator’s website on 10 November 2026, addresses major ports, minor ports and state maritime boards. Reporting extends to vessels within their jurisdictions or areas of control, including berths, anchorages and port approaches.

The reporting requirement covers ships that are abandoned or suspected to have been abandoned, as well as vessels detained by Port State Control or another statutory authority. Ships arrested or restrained through court orders or other legal proceedings must also be included.

The scope further extends to vessels that are immobilised, disabled, laid up, stranded, grounded, drifting, unmanned or otherwise unable to operate safely.

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