For registration of water sports activity or boating, application has to be made to the concerned District Magistrate
Waterside Safety Committee periodically boat operation and water Sports activities will be inspected and punitive measures will be taken for violation of rules
Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has expressed the commitment of the state government to make boating and water sports activities more safe and secure in the state.
For this purpose, Chief Minister Shri Gujarat Inland Vessels (Cat 'C' Registration of Inland Vessels, Survey and Management) Regulations 2024has allowed.
State Govt Gujarat Inland Vessels 2021category according to the provisions of 'C' Registration of Inland Vessels, DRAFT RULES FOR SURVEYING AND MANAGEMENT JOIN-2024It was prepared and published to invite public objection suggestions.
After carefully studying the objections-suggestions raised in this draft context, now the Chief Minister has given the directions to finalize these rules to the Ports and Transport Department.
Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel has given priority to make water sports and boating activities safer and more secure in the state after the Harani lake boat incident.
Accordingly these new rules announced by the state government 10 Applied to pleasure craft of less than meter length.
Under these rules 10 Persons desiring to register pleasure craft-boats of less than meter length shall apply to the concerned District Magistrate.
It is ensured in these rules that, District or City Waterside Safety Committees may conduct periodic inspections of water sports activities and boat operations and may take punitive action for violation of safety rules.
The rules have also elaborated on the roles and responsibilities of urban and rural areas and other authorities. Also the role of the operator, Life jacket, Monthly Maintenance, Qualified Crew Members, The life boat, Emergency Response Boat, Safety equipment, Public awareness and environmental safety standards have also been expanded.
Inland Vessels Act2021 and by exercising the powers of other relevant rules, The State Government has appointed the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Gujarat Maritime Board to exercise the powers or duties under the Act.
Nautical Officer of Gujarat Maritime Board as Chief Surveyor, District Magistrate as Registrar and Marine Officer and Engineer in charge of various surveys have also been appointed for registration of water sports activities and boating.
These new rules announced under the guidance of Chief Minister Shri Bhupendra Patel will strengthen water sports and boating activities in the state.
Not only safety measures, Implementation of measures including regular inspections can reduce potential hazards in boating and water sports activities. Also overall public safety will increase along with boosting the tourism sector and employment growth in the state.
