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Gandhinagar, 25 October (Hindustan Reporter). Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has expressed the state government's commitment to make boating and water sports activities safer in the state. With this objective, the Government has approved 'Gujarat Inland Vessels (Registration, Survey and Operation of Category 'C' Inland Vessels) Rules, 2024'.
According to the provisions of the Gujarat Inland Vessels Act 2021, the state government had prepared the draft of these rules for registration, survey and operation of Category C Inland Vessels in June 2024 and to invite objections and suggestions of the people on this draft. It was released.
After carefully studying the objections and suggestions received regarding this draft, the Chief Minister has now given directions to the Ports and Transport Department to finalize these rules. Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has given priority to making water sports and boating activities safer in the state after the Harni Talab boat incident.
Application before DM for registration
These new rules announced by the state government have been implemented for pleasure crafts, boats and boats less than 10 meters long. Under these rules, people wishing to register pleasure craft, boats and boats less than 10 meters long will have to apply to the concerned District Magistrate. In these rules, it has been ensured that the Waterside Safety Committee of the district or city will periodically inspect the operation of water sports activities and boats and will be able to take punitive measures for violation of safety rules. In these rules, detailed provisions have also been made regarding the role and responsibilities of urban and rural areas and other authorities and the role of operator, life jacket, monthly maintenance, qualified crew members, life boat, emergency response boat, safety resources, public awareness. And the norms of environmental protection have also been expanded.
Appointment of Vice Chairman and CEO of GMB
In exercise of the powers of the Inland Vessels Act 2021 and other related rules, the State Government has appointed the Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) to exercise the powers and responsibilities under the Act. Nautical Officer of GMB has also been appointed as Chief Surveyor, DM as Registrar for registration of water sports activities and boating and Marine Officer and Engineers as in-charge of various surveys.