Pre publication of Inland Vessel (Special Category Vessel) Rules 2026
The Gazette of India
CG-DL-E-01072026-273964
EXTRAORDINARY
PART II—Section 3—Sub-section (i)
PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY
No. 456] NEW DELHI, MONDAY, JUNE 22, 2026/ASHADHA 1, 1948
MINISTRY OF PORTS, SHIPPING AND WATERWAYS
NOTIFICATION
New Delhi, the 22nd June, 2026
G.S.R. 507(E).— The draft of the Inland Vessels (Special Category Vessels—Classification and Standards)
Rules, 2026, which the Central Government proposes to make, in exercise of the powers conferred sub-sections (1)
and (2) of section 42 and clause (a) of sub-section (1) of section 98 read with clause (zh) of sub-section (2) of section
106 of the Inland Vessels Act 2021 (24 of 2021), is hereby published as required by sub-section (1) of section 106 of
the said Act for information of all persons likely to be affected thereby; and notice is hereby given that the said draft
rules shall be taken into consideration after the expiry of thirty days from the date on which the copies of this
notification, as published in the Official Gazette, are made available to the public;
Objections or suggestions, if any, to these draft rules may be sent to the Director (IWT), Ministry of Ports,
Shipping & Waterways, Room No. 422, Transport Bhawan, 1-Parliament Street, New Delhi-110001, or by email at
diriwt1-psw@gov.in, psw-usiwt2@gov.in, soiwt1-psw@gov.in and iwt-team@gov.in within the period specified
above;
The objections or suggestions which may be received from any person concerning the said draft rules, within
the period so specified will be considered by the Central Government.
DRAFT RULES
1. Short title and commencement. – (1) These rules may be called the Inland Vessels (Special Category Vessels—
Classification and Standards) Rules, 2026.
(2) They shall come into force on the date of their publication in the Official Gazette.
2. Application. – These rules shall apply to all special category vessels whose keel is laid or which is at such similar
stage of construction on or after the publication of these rules in the Official Gazette.
3. Definitions. – (1) In these rules, unless the context otherwise requires, –
(a) “Act” means the Inland Vessels Act, 2021 (24 of 2021);
(b) “automated vessels” means a mechanically propelled inland vessel that operates without onboard crew or
significantly reduced manning and is remotely monitored or controlled;
(c) “canal cruise boat” means mechanically propelled inland vessel including houseboat designed or modified primarily
for temporary accommodation for commercial activities or for private tourism or recreational activity, and carrying not
more than fifty passengers;
(d) “classification society” means a recognised organisation within the meaning of clause (zo) of section 3 of the Act,
which is a member of the International Association of Classification Societies;
(e) “designated authority” means an authority appointed by the State Government by notification under sub-section (3)
of section 5 of the Act for the purposes specified in such notification and for exercising or discharging such powers,
authority or duties as may be conferred under the Act and these rules.
(f) “excursion boat” means a private or commercial mechanically propelled inland vessel operating on inland waterways
engaged in short-duration recreational, tourism or sightseeing voyages without provision for overnight accommodation
and returning to the same or other berthing points on the same day;
(g) “Form” means a form appended to these rules;
(h) “non-metallic and composite materials” means materials, other than metals, used in the construction of a vessel,
including wood, or fibre-reinforced plastics or glass-reinforced plastics, or other similar composite materials;
(i) “operational area” means the inland water area covered under any of the zones specified under section 4 of the Act,
within which the vessels are to be operated, irrespective of the vessel’s place of registration;
(j) “operator” means a person operating a pleasure craft;
(k) “pleasure craft” means a mechanically propelled inland vessel including excursion boat, of less than ten meters in
length, used for private or commercial water sports, river or lake cruising including yachting and other types of boating
or water skiing or jet skiing or other similar commercial recreational activities;
(l) “semi- automated vessels” means a mechanically propelled inland vessel that incorporates a centralised or advanced
control systems to perform certain navigational or operational functions, while retaining onboard crew for operation,
control and supervision with such reduced manning as may be permitted by the designated authority of the State;
(m) “shore” means the strip or area of waterfront land that is located alongside a body of inland waters;
(n) “special category vessels” means the mechanically propelled inland vessels classified under rule 4;
(o) “speed boat” means a mechanically propelled inland vessel having a planing or semi-planing hull form, designed
and capable of attaining high speeds and operating at a Froude Number (Fn) of 0.8 or greater;
(p) “surveyor” means the officer or person appointed by the State Government under section 10 of the Act.
(2) The words and expressions used and not defined in these rules but defined in the Act, shall have the meanings
as respectively assigned to them in the Act.
CHAPTER – I
PRELIMINARY
4. Special category vessels.– (1) The mechanically propelled inland vessels shall be classified as special category
vessels, considering the materials used for their design and construction, fueling system or source of power for
propulsion, purpose of use for private or commercial water sports activities and other recreational activities, as
follows: –
(a) alternative fuel and propulsion inland vessels, using –
(i) Liquefied Natural Gas or Compressed Natural Gas as fuel;
(ii) batteries for main propulsion, or, as an additional source of power for propulsion;
(iii) methanol as fuel;
(iv) hydrogen fuel cell or hydrogen internal combustion engines for main propulsion; and
(v) ammonia as fuel;
(b) advanced technology vessels, namely: –
(i) automated inland vessels which are remotely monitored and controlled;
(ii) semi- automated inland vessels with centralised control systems and onboard crew;
(c) inland vessels constructed from non-metallic and composite materials, having theirminimum sixty per cent. of
the structural weight (hull, deck and superstructure) constructed–
(i) of wood;
(ii) of glass reinforced plastic or fibre reinforced plastic; and
(iii) using composite or other similar alternative materials;
(d) recreational and tourism vessels, namely: –
(i) pleasure crafts; and
(ii) canal cruise boats.
(2) A vessel falling under more than one of the classes specified in sub-rule (1) shall be classified by the designated
authority in the following order of precedence, namely:
(i) alternative fuel and propulsion vessels;
(ii) advanced technology vessels;
(iii) recreational and tourism vessels; and
(iv) Inland vessels constructed from non-metallic and composite material:
Provided that the classification of hybrid (powered by both engine and battery) or battery powered recreational
and tourism vessels, having total propulsion power less than 100 KW or having length less than 10 meters, and
operating in Zone 2 or Zone 3 shall be deemed as recreational and tourism vessels.
5. Survey and certification. –(1) A special category vessel referred to in clauses (a) and (b) of rule 4 shall be designed,
constructed and maintained under the survey of a classification society:
Provided that, such vessel which is battery-propelled having total propulsion power less than 100 KW or having
length less than 10 m, and is operating in Zone 2 or Zone 3, may be designed, constructed and maintained under the
survey of the designated authority if the owner of the vessel opt to do so.
(2) A special category vessel referred to in clauses (c) and (d) of rule 4 shall be designed, constructed and maintained
under the survey of such authorities as applicable to such vessels as per their Zone of operation specified in rule 4 of
the Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules, 2024.
(3) Notwithstanding anything contained in these rules, all special category vessels operating in Zone 1 specified in
section 4 of the Act shall be designed, constructed and maintained under survey of a classification society.
(4) The survey by the classification society shall be in addition to the survey conducted by the surveyor
appointed under section 10 of the Act or survey by such person or organisation as may be delegated by the
State Government under sub-section (4) of section 12 of the Act.
(5) The Certificate of Survey of a special category vessel shall be issued in Form D appended to these rules and Form
No.5 of the Inland Vessels (Survey and Certification) Rules, 2022 shall not apply to such vessel.
6. Obligations of the owner of pleasure craft or canal cruise boat. – The owner of pleasure craft or canal cruise boat
shall–
(a) ensure that the pleasure crafts and canal cruise boatsshall be manned by the minimum number of crew
members as specified in these rules;
(b) engage only qualified and competent crew members, who hold a valid licence issued by the designated
authority, for operating and maintaining the pleasure crafts and canal cruise boats;
(c) comply with the requirements of crew training and certification for pleasure crafts and canal cruise boats
in accordance with these rules;
(d) comply with the provisions of the Act and the applicable rules made thereunder;
(e) deploy the vessel within the area specified by the designated authority in Form D;
(f) ensure that the pleasure crafts operate strictly within visual range of the shore and remain clearly visible at
all times during operation;
(g) ensure that the operation of the canal cruise boat, unless expressly permitted by the designated authority,
shall be confined to daylight hours, fair season and safe conditions, taking into consideration factors such as
wind speed, unseasonal rainfall and inland water swells.
Explanation.– For the purposes of this clause, the expression “fair season” means the period showing fair conditions
of wind and sea as may be specified by the Directorate General of Shipping or by such other authority as may be
authorised by the Central Government or State Government;
7. Training requirements for special category vessels. —The Inland Waterways Authority of India shall–
(a) review the training requirements and applicable courses including course structure and syllabus for various
categories of crew for operation of special category vessels and revise such requirements from time to time; and
(b) issue guidelines, including notifications and circulars, for the purpose of implementation, standardisation, and
conduct of such training, including specification of course content, duration, assessment, and certification.
CHAPTER 2
CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND MANNING OF
ALTERNATIVE FUEL AND PROPULSION VESSELS
8. Application of Chapter 2. – The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to alternative fuel and propulsion vessels
referred to in clause (a) of sub rule (1) of rule 4.
9. Standards for design and construction. –- (1) The standards for design and construction of alternative fuel and
propulsion vessels shall be governed by the provisions of the Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules, 2024 and
other applicable rules:
Provided that the engine and its alternative fuel supply system or motors with batteries and battery management
system, propulsion systems and other related components of such vessels, not covered by the Inland Vessels (Design
and Construction) Rules, 2024 and other applicable rules shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the
standards specified by any classification society:
Provided further that the components of the battery propelled vessels having total propulsion power less than 100
KW, or having length less than 10 meters and are operating in Zone 2 or Zone 3, shall be designed and constructed in
accordance with the standards specified by-
(a) the Bureau of Indian Standards; or
(b) the International Organisation for Standardisation; or
(c) any classification society.
(2) The owner of the vessel referred to in sub-rule (1) shall furnish a declaration regarding standards for design and
construction, in Form C, to the designated authority.
10. Threshold of compliance. – (1) Every alternative fuel and propulsion vessel referred to in clause (a) of sub-rule (1)
of rule 4 shall be constructed, equipped, maintained and operated in full compliance with the provisions of these rules.
(2) No Certificate of Survey shall be issued under rule 5 in respect of any alternative fuel and propulsion vessel
unless such vessel is in full compliance with the design, construction, equipment and safety standards specified in
these rules.
(3) Every existing alternative fuel and propulsion vessel, operating prior to commencement of these rules, shall
continue to comply with the requirements for design and construction that were applicable to such vessels:
Provided that whenever such vessel undergoes a conversion, modification, or replacement of its propulsion
system, fuel system, or main engines and starts operation using alternate fuels, the provisions of these rules shall apply
to such conversion, modification, or replacement.
11. Manning.– (1) Every alternative fuel and propulsion vessel referred to in clause (a) of sub-rule (1) of rule 4 shall
comply with the minimum manning requirements specified under the Inland Vessels (Manning) Rules, 2026.
(2) No person shall act as Master or Engine Driver or Inland Engineer of an alternative fuel and propulsion vessel
unless—
(a) such person has successfully completed the training specified by the Inland Waterways Authority of India;
and
(b) the Certificate of Competency bears the requisite endorsement made by the designated authority for the
category of vessel on which such person is deployed.
CHAPTER 3
CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND MANNING OF ADVANCED
TECHNOLOGY VESSELS
12. Application of Chapter 3. – The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to advanced technology vessels referred
to in clause (b) of sub rule (1) of rule 4.
13. Standards for design and construction of advanced technology vessel. – (1) The standards for the design and
construction of advanced technology vessels shall be governed by the provisions of the Inland Vessels (Design and
Construction) Rules, 2024 and other applicable rules.
(2) The automation related components or other components of such vessels not covered under sub-rule (1) shall be
designed and constructed in accordance with the standards specified by–
(a) the Bureau of Indian Standards; or
(b) the International Organisation for Standardisation; or
(c) any classification society.
(3) The owner of the vessel shall furnish a declaration regarding standards for design and construction in
Form C to the designated authority.
14. Threshold of compliance of advanced technology vessel. – (1) Every existing advanced technology vessel,
operating prior to commencement of these rules, shall continue to comply with the requirements applicable to the
said vessels:
Provided that whenever such vessel undergoes a conversion, modification, or replacement of its navigation
systems, propulsion systems, control architecture, or automated components, the provisions of these rules shall apply
to such conversion, modification, or replacement.
Provided further that crew requirement for such vessel may be reviewed and revised by the designated authority
in accordance with rule 15.
(2) The communication and fail-safe mechanisms as specified in the Schedule to the Inland Vessels (Design and
Construction) Rules, 2024 shall apply to the automated and semi-automated vessels referred to in clause (b) of subrule (1) of rule 4.
(3) Every advanced technology vessel shall be designed, constructed, equipped, maintained, and operated in full
compliance with the provisions of these rules.
(4) No certificate of survey shall be issued to any advanced technology vessel under rule 5 unless such vessel is in
full compliance with the applicable design, construction, automation, navigation, safety, and control standards
specified in these rules.
15. Manning of advanced technology vessel. – (1) Every advanced technology vessel shall comply with the
minimum manning requirements specified under the Inland Vessels (Manning) Rules, 2026.
(2) The manning requirements for advanced technology vessels shall be determined based on a risk-based assessment
conducted by the designated authority considering the following factors, namely: –
(a) the level of automation;
(b) the operating zone;
(c) the type of operation (cargo or passenger or survey or surveillance);
(d) the duration of the voyage; and
(e) the availability and adequacy of redundancy systems:
Provided that the designated authority may reduce the manning requirement of such vessels, other than the
Master, without compromising safety of crew, passengers, if any, and vessels plying in inland waters and such
exemption shall be recorded in Certificate of Survey of the vessel.
(3) The automated vessels may be allowed to operate without onboard crew subject to remote monitoring and shorebased support in accordance with the approval of designated authority, without compromising safety of crew,
passengers, if any and vessels plying in inland waters.
Provided that where crew is not physically present onboard, it shall be mandatory to maintain continuous
communication systems, and real-time monitoring infrastructure between such vessel and the designated control
centre, duly inspected and certified by such authorities as applicable to such vessels under these rules.
Explanation.– For the purposes of this sub-rule the expression “designated control centre” means a designated shorebased facility responsible for the real-time monitoring and control of automated or semi- automated vessels.
(4) No person shall act as Master or Engine Driver or Inland Engineer of advanced technology vessels unless—
(a) such person has successfully completed the training as specified by t h e Inland Waterways Authority of
India; and
(b) the Certificate of Competency bears the requisite endorsement made by the designated authority for the
category of vessel on which such person is deployed.
CHAPTER 4
CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION AND MANNING OF VESSELS
CONSTRUCTED FROM NON-METALLIC AND COMPOSITE MATERIALS
16. Application of Chapter 4. – (1) The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to vessels constructed from nonmetallic and composite materials, as specified in clause (c) of sub-rule (1) of rule 4.
17. Standards for design and construction.– (1) The standards for design and construction of new vessels constructed
from non-metallic and composite materials shall be governed by the applicable provisions of the Inland Vessels
(Design and Construction) Rules, 2024 and other applicable rules:
Provided that for materials and structural design, the designated authority may also consider the following
standards, namely: –
(a) the Bureau of Indian Standards; or
(b) the International Organisation for Standardisation; or
(c) any classification society.
(2) The relevant provisions of the Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules, 2024 shall apply to vessel
constructed from non-metallic and composite materials subject to such adaptations in methods, materials or
arrangements as may be considered reasonable by the designated authority:
Provided that the designated authority shall record reasons in writing while permitting compliance with
alternative standards, including standards issued by the Bureau of Indian Standards or the International Organisation
for Standardisation or any classification society, where it is satisfied that such standards provide an equivalent or higher
level of safety in respect of the requirements specified:
Provided further that no such adaptation or modification or exemption shall be permitted which may dilute the
requirements relating to structural integrity, watertight integrity, stability, freeboard, fire safety, machinery safety and
essential safety systems.
(3) The owner shall furnish a declaration regarding standards for design and construction followed, in Form C to the
designated authority.
18. Threshold of compliance. – (1) Every existing vessel constructed from non-metallic and composite materials,
operating prior to the commencement of these rules, shall continue to comply with the requirements applicable to such
vessels:
Provided that where such vessel undergoes a conversion, modification, or replacement of its hull, deck and
superstructure, the provisions of these rules shall apply to such conversion, modification, or replacement.
(2) Every vessel constructed from non-metallic and composite materials shall be designed, constructed, equipped,
maintained, and operated in compliance with the provisions of these rules.
(3) No certificate of survey shall be issued under rule 5 to any vessel constructed from non-metallic and composite
materials unless such vessel is in compliance with the applicable design and construction standards specified in these
rules.
19. Manning.– (1) Every vessel constructed from non-metallic and composite materials shall comply with the
minimum manning requirements specified under the Inland Vessels (Manning) Rules, 2026.
(2) No person shall act as Master or Engine Driver or Inland Engineer of advanced technology vessels unless—
(a) such person has successfully completed such training as may be prescribed by Inland Waterways Authority
of India; and
(b) the Certificate of Competency bears the requisite endorsement made by the designated authority for the
category of vessel on which such person is deployed.
CHAPTER 5
CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF PLEASURE CRAFTS
20. Application of Chapter 5. – The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to pleasure crafts up to length of 10 meters
engaged in water sports activities, including but not limited to vessels employed for parasailing operations referred to
in clause (d) of sub-rule (1) of rule 4.
21. Standards for design and construction. – (1) The vessels referred to in rule 20 shall comply with the applicable
standards specified by–
(i) the Bureau of Indian Standards; or
(ii) the International Organisation for Standardisation; or
(iii) any classification society.
(2) Without prejudice to the provisions of sub-rule (1), the design and construction of pleasure craft shall comply with
the following requirements, namely:–
(a) the hull design shall provide stability, buoyancy and smooth handling and hull form may be catamaran, monohull
or multihull configuration as applicable;
(b) the stress points, such as the transom and hull-deck joints, shall be reinforced to withstand the loads imposed during
high-speed manoeuvres;
(c) the loading conditions shall be analysed using finite element analysis or equivalent computational methods;
(d) the structural design and the material selection and scantling calculations shall be made in accordance with
applicable standards referred to in sub-rule (1);
(e) all components shall be constructed using high-quality, marine-grade materials resistant to corrosion, ultra
violet radiation and mechanical wear;
(f) the type of materials for construction shall include, but not limited to steel, aluminium, fiberglass, marine
plywood, carbon fibre, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane, Hypalon and polyethylene;
(g) the stability and buoyancy requirements of pleasure crafts used for water sports and related activities shall
comply with standards referred to in sub-rule (1);
(3) All pleasure crafts shall be –
(a) equipped with safety gear and equipment in accordance with their categorisation;
(b) provided with adequate fire-fighting arrangements and life-saving appliances, appropriate to its size, type,
propulsion system and intended operation, in accordance with the Inland Vessels (Fire Fighting Appliances)
Rules, 2022 and the Inland Vessels (Life Saving Appliances) Rules, 2022, as may be deemed appropriate by the
designated authority;
(c) provided with—
(i) additional fire extinguishers in machinery spaces and passenger spaces (if applicable);
(ii) at least one fire bucket with lanyard; and
(iii) one sand box with scoop in machinery space (if applicable), where fitted.
(iv) portable fire pumps of appropriate capacity (not less than twelve cubic meters per hour);
(v) lifesaving appliances applicable to such category of vessels:
Provided that the designated authority may, in the case of small open pleasure craft of length not
exceeding six metres, fitted with low-powered outboard engines and without enclosed machinery spaces,
permit exemption from the requirement of fire pump and such fire-fighting and life-saving appliances as
may not be practicable, subject to such conditions as may be specified, where it is satisfied that—(A) the
absence of such appliances does not adversely affect the safety of the crew, passengers, if any, or the vessel;
and(B) adequate alternative safety arrangements, including portable fire extinguishers and personal flotation
devices, are provided on board.
(4) Without prejudice to sub-rule (3), the following minimum safety equipment shall be provided onboard all such
vessels, namely: –
(a) Type III or Type V Personal Flotation Devices for each person, including infants and child, conforming to the
standards referred to in sub-rule (1);
(b) a fully stocked accessible and waterproof first aid kit shall be placed in a conspicuous and easily identifiable position;
(c) a whistle, sound-producing signaling device (horn) and approved visual distress signals (e.g., flares) shall be
placed in a conspicuous and easily identifiable position;
(d) navigation lights as specified under the Inland Vessels (Safe Navigation, Communication and Signal) Rules,
2022 shall be available;
(e) safety equipments as per vessel category, length and engine power shall be as per the following table, namely:
–
(5) Notwithstanding anything contained in rule 4 of the Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules, 2024, the
requirements applicable to parasailing (winch-launch) vessels not exceeding 10 metres in length shall be applicable
to the existing parasailing (winch-launch) vessels of up to 10.5 metres in length, operating on the date of
commencement of these rules, only for the purpose of parasailing operations.
(6) All engine and fuel system equipment of pleasure crafts used for water sports and related activities shall comply
with the standards referred to in sub-rule (1).
(7) All pleasure crafts intended for water sports and similar activities, shall be fitted with engines and fuel systems that
meet applicable safety, environmental and construction standards as specified by the State Government.
(8) Only marine-grade engines, specifically designed for water sports and high-performance applications shall be
installed.
(9) All enginesshall comply the provisions of the rule 9 and rule 10 of the Inland Vessels (Prevention and Containment
of Pollution) Rules, 2022 with particular reference to emission norms and noise level.
(10) Fuel systems shall be installed strictly in accordance with the engine manufacturer’s specifications and
recommendations.
(11) Builders shall ensure–
(a) use of secure and leak-proof fittings;
(b) adequate ventilation of fuel compartments; and
(c) use of fire-resistant materials and components.
(12) The steering, throttle and emergency controls shall be intuitively placed, clearly marked and easily operatable
with minimal physical effort.
(13) Control systems shall be designed to reduce operator fatigue and enhance responsiveness, particularly in highspeed or dynamic operating conditions.
(14) A builder’s certificate shall be issued confirming compliance with the fuel system installation standards.
(15) All electrical installations and equipment, including wiring, battery systems, switches and associated apparatus,
shall conform to the standards referred to in sub-rule (1) and the following requirements, namely: –
(a) all electrical wirings shall consist of marine-grade, tinned copper conductors or other wiring of equivalent
standard, duly insulated and appropriate for marine use and securely fastened and routed to prevent physical damage
and adequately protected against exposure to moisture and corrosive elements;
(b) battery systems shall be installed in adequately ventilated and secured enclosures and be fitted with properly
insulated terminals and provided with suitable fusing and overcurrent protection devices;
(c) the installation shall be designed to prevent spillage, short-circuiting and ensure resistance to vibration and
corrosion;
(d) all electrical equipments, including switches, connectors and fixtures, shall be of waterproof or water-resistant
type, suitable for use in marine environments;
(e) all such equipments shall be installed and maintained in a manner that ensures operational safety and mitigates
the risk of electrical hazard.
(16) All pleasure crafts and water sports vessels shall be equipped with navigation and communication systems necessary
for ensuring safe operation, situational awareness and emergency response.
(17) The following minimum equipment shall be provided onboard such vessels, namely: –
(a) a functional GPS unit shall be installed to enable real-time and accurate positional tracking and
route navigation, especially in restricted or busy waterways;
(b) each vessel shall carry at least one operational smartphone or waterproof mobile communication
device, capable of–
(i) contacting other vessels,
(ii) communicating with shore-based emergency services; and
(iii) receiving weather and navigational alerts where available;
(c) a marine-grade compass shall be installed as a backup navigational aid in the event of electronic equipment
failure;
(18) All pleasure crafts and water sports vessels engaged in water sports activities shall be ergonomically designed to
ensure safety, comfort and efficient operation for both passengers and crew and such design shall comply with
standards referred to in sub-rule (1).
(19) The design features shall include the following minimum ergonomic requirements,
namely: –
(a) all passenger and operator seating shall be secure, comfortable and fitted with appropriate safety restraints as
required;
(b) seating shall provide adequate support to minimise injury risk during rapid acceleration, maneuvering,
or wave impacts.
22. Additional requirements for parasailing boat, scuba diving boat and rescue boat.–
(1) All parasailing boat, scuba diving boat and rescue boat shall comply with the applicable standards specified by–
(i) the Bureau of Indian Standards; or
(ii) the International Organisation for Standardisation; or
(iii) any classification society.
(2) Without prejudice to the provisions of sub-rule (1), the parasailing boat, scuba diving boat and rescue boat shall
comply with the following additional requirements, namely:–
(a) winch of parasailing boat shall be designed as per applicable Indian Standards or classification society
requirements or International Standards with the following minimum requirements, namely: –
(i) winch drum with rope liner shall be constructed with stainless steel 316 or anodized aluminium;
(ii) hydraulic motor working pressure shall be upto min 190 bar;
(iii) stainless steel 316 mast for parasail rope having tested load capacity of 1.3 to 1.5 ton shall be used;
(iv) parasail towlines shall be polyamide or nylon braided with a minimum rated tensile strength between 4 – 5 ton;
(v) parasail towlines shall not exceed the maximum length recommended by the towline, winch and parasail equipment
manufacturers (shortest length recommended by these three shall be considered for limiting the maximum length).
(3) Scuba diving boat shall be designed duly considering applicable standards referred to in sub-rule (1) and the
following requirements, namely: –
(a) adequate provision shall be made for safe and secure stowage of Buoyancy Control Devices (BCD) for–
(i) each diver carried on board; and
(ii) an additional reserve of not less than twenty-five per cent. of the total number of divers, subject to a
minimum of two additional BCDs;
(iii) each BCD shall be –
(A) of appropriate size and type suitable for the intended diving operations;
(B) maintained in serviceable condition, and
(C) readily accessible and properly secured to prevent movement or damage;
(iv) provision of swim platform for diver’s entry and exit in water
(v) stainless steel ladder with appropriate inclination for re-boarding of diver from water.
(4) Rescue boat shall be designed considering applicable standards referred to in sub-rule (1) and comply with the
following requirements, namely: –
(a) upto five seating capacity or minimum 6 meters length;
(b) sufficient space to place spine board on the deck;
(c) provision for stowing portable oxygen cylinder and First Aid kit.
23. The provisions of the Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules, 2024 shall apply to pleasure crafts constructed
of wood, fibre reinforced plastic or similar materials in respect of the components not covered by these rules, subject to
such adaptations in methods, materials or arrangements as may be considered necessary by the designated authority:
Provided such adaptation in methods, materials or arrangements shall not dilute the requirements relating to structural
integrity, watertight integrity, stability, freeboard, fire safety, machinery safety and essential safety systems.
24. Threshold of compliance. – (1) Every existing pleasure craft operating prior to commencement of these rules shall
continue to comply with the requirements applicable to such vessels:
Provided that where a pleasure craft undergoes a conversion, modification, or replacement, the provisions of these
rules shall apply to such conversion, modification, or replacement.
(2) No certificate of survey shall be issued to any pleasure craft unless such vessel complies with the applicable design,
construction, automation, navigation, safety, and control standards specified in these rules.
CHAPTER 6
CRITERIA AND STANDARDS FOR DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF CANAL CRUISE BOATS
25. Application of Chapter 6.– The provisions of this Chapter shall apply to canal cruise boat–
(a) not exceeding 30 meters in overall length;
(b) intended for recreational use;
(c) powered by inboard motors, outboard motors, or battery propulsion systems; and
(d) carrying not more than 50 passengers.
26. General requirements.– Canal cruise boats shall comply with the following requirements, namely: –
(a) fuel storage shall be in a restricted area, free from hazards;
(b) bathroom floors shall be impervious to water.
27. Standards for design and construction. – (1) The Canal cruise boats referred to in rule 25 shall comply with the
applicable standards specified by–
(i) the Bureau of Indian Standards; or
(ii) the International Organisation for Standardisation; or
(iii) any classification society.
(2) Without prejudice to the provisions of sub-rule (1), the design and construction of canal cruise boats shall comply
with the following requirements, namely:–
(a) all components shall be constructed using high-quality, marine-grade materials resistant to corrosion, ultra violet
radiation and mechanical wear and such materials shall be selected having regard to the vessel’s design, intended
service, and operating conditions, which may include—
(i) primary structural materials, namely: –
(A) steel;
(B) aluminium and its alloys;
(C) fibre-reinforced plastic, including glass-reinforced plastic;
(D) wood and marine-grade plywood;
(E) composite materials, including carbon fibre reinforced polymers;
(ii) secondary or non-structural materials, namely: –
(A) polyvinyl chloride;
(B) polyethylene (including low-density polyethylene and high- density polyethylene;
(C) polyurethane;
(D) hypalon or other synthetic rubber-based fabrics:
Provided that the materials specified under sub-clause (ii) shall not be used as primary load-bearing structural
components unless specifically approved by the designated authority or a classification society.
(b) the hull design shall provide stability, buoyancy and smooth handling;
(c) stress points, such as the transom and hull-deck joints, shall be reinforced to withstand the loads imposed during
high-speed manoeuvres;
(d) all canal cruise boats shall comply with Chapter IV of the Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules,
2024:
Provided that the designated authority may exempt any or all requirements of the said Chapter of the said rules
where watertight bulkheads are impractical or not provided in boats and alternate arrangements shall be ensured for
equivalent buoyancy, damage survivability and safety;
(e) all canal cruise boats shall be equipped with safety gears and equipment appropriate to their category as
per applicable rules and requirements applicable to such vessels;
(3) The following safety equipment shall be provided onboard all such vessels, namely:–
(a) firefighting equipment shall be provided in accordance with the provisions of the Inland Vessels (Fire
Fighting Appliances) Rules, 2022 and in the case of houseboats using highly flammable materials such as
bamboo (panambu) or thatch to achieve a traditional ambience, additional water hydrants and fire
extinguishers shall be provided;
(b) the hydrants and hoses shall be located in such a way that a jet of water can reach any part of the hull or
superstructure that is constructed from such flammable materials;
(c) vessel owner shall provide fireproof kitchen materials and purified drinking water;
(d) life saving appliances shall comply with the standards specified under the Inland Vessels (Life Saving
Appliances) Rules, 2022;
(e) a fully stocked first aid kit and appropriate distress signaling devices shall be made available;
(f) emergency alarm buttons or systems shall be installed to alert crew and passengers in the event of an emergency,
ensuring prompt response and evacuation, if necessary;
(g) navigational lights shall be installed and maintained in accordance with the Inland Vessels (Safe Navigation,
Communication and Signals) Rules, 2022;
(h) all canal cruise boats shall be fitted with engines and fuel systems that meet applicable safety, environmental
and construction standards as prescribed in these rules.
(2) (a) Only marine-grade engines, specifically designed for high-performance applications, shall be installed and all
engines shall comply with the provisions of rule 9 and rule 10 of the Inland Vessels (Prevention and Containment of
Pollution) Rules, 2022, with particular reference to emission norms and noise level.
(b) Fuel systems shall be installed strictly in accordance with the engine manufacturer’s specifications and
recommendations and rules 56 to 58 of Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules, 2024.
(c) Fuel systems shall comply with the following additional requirements, namely:–
(i) use of secure and leak-proof fittings;
(ii) adequate ventilation of fuel compartments; and
(iii) use of fire-resistant materials and components.
(3) Steering, throttle and emergency controls shall be intuitively placed, clearly marked and easily operable with minimal
physical effort and control systems shall be designed to reduce operator fatigue and enhance responsiveness, particularly
in high-speed or dynamic operating conditions.
(4) A builder’s certificate shall be issued confirming compliance with the above installation standards.
(5) All electrical installations and equipment, including but not limited to wiring, battery systems, switches
and associated apparatus, shall comply with the following requirements, namely:–
(a) all electrical wiring shall consist of marine-grade, tinned copper conductors or other wiring of equivalent
standard, duly insulated and appropriate for marine use which shall be securely fastened, routed to prevent
physical damage and adequately protected against exposure to moisture and corrosive elements;
(b) battery systems shall be–
(i) installed in adequately ventilated and secured enclosures;
(ii) be fitted with properly insulated terminals;
(iii) be provided with suitable fusing and overcurrent protection devices; (iv) designed to prevent
spillage, short-circuiting and ensure resistance to vibration and corrosion;
(c) all electrical equipment, including switches, connectors and fixtures, shall be–
(i) of waterproof or water-resistant type, suitable for use in marine environments;
(ii) installed and maintained in a manner that ensures operational safety and mitigates the risk of electrical
hazard.
(6) All canal cruise boats, shall be equipped with navigation and communication systems necessary for ensuring safe
operation, situational awareness and emergency response, as per applicable rules.
(7) The following equipment shall be provided onboard such vessels, namely: –
(a) a functional Global Positioning System (GPS)unit shall be installed to enable real-time and accurate
positional tracking and route navigation, especially in restricted or busy waterways;
(b) each vessel shall carry at least one operational smartphone or waterproof mobile communication
device, capable of–
(i) contacting other vessels;
(ii) communicating with shore-based emergency services; and
(iii) receiving weather and navigational alerts where available.
(c) a marine-grade compass shall be installed as a backup navigational aid in the event of electronic equipment
failure;
(8) (a) All canal cruise boats shall be ergonomically designed to ensure safety, comfort and efficient operation for both
passengers and crew.
(b) The canal cruise boats shall comply with the standards referred to in sub-rule (1) and the following ergonomic
requirements, namely:–
(i) all passenger and operator seating shall be secure, comfortable and fitted with appropriate safety
restraints as required;
(ii) Seating shall provide adequate support to minimise injury risk during rapid acceleration,
manoeuvring, or wave impacts.
(9) All canal cruise boats shall adhere to the following environmental protection requirements to ensure ecofriendly operations on inland waterways, namely:–
(a) canal cruise boats shall utilise sustainable materials and adopt environment friendly construction practices
to minimise ecological impact;
(b) vessels shall be equipped with facilities for segregation of solid waste into the following categories,
namely:–
(i) biodegradable waste (e.g., kitchen waste);
(ii) non-biodegradable waste (e.g., thermocol products, aluminium foil, etc.);
(iii) recyclable waste (e.g., newspapers, bottles, cans, etc.).
(c) each canal cruise boat shall be provided with an appropriate sewage treatment plant or bio-digester or
holding tank of such capacity sufficient for the number of persons on board and direct discharge of any
sewage into inland waterways shall be prohibited.
(d) all vessels shall be equipped with integrated waste water management systems, including holding tanks
for sewage and wastewater;
(d) wastewater shall be disposed of in accordance with the Inland Vessels (Prevention and Containment of
Pollution) Rules, 2022.
(e) the use of biodegradable alternatives, such as paper or cloth bags, shall be actively encouraged and use of
plastic bags shall be restricted onboard.
(10) Upon installation of wastewater holding tanks, a stability test shall be conducted to ensure that vessel safety is
not compromised.
28. Battery System and Battery Management System. — (1) All battery propelled and hybrid canal cruise boats to
which these rules apply shall comply with the applicable standards specified by–
(i) the Bureau of Indian Standards; or
(ii) the International Organisation for Standardisation; or
(iii) any classification society.
(2) All battery propelled and hybrid canal cruise boats shall comply with the following additional requirements, namely:
–
(a) batteries and BMS shall–
(i) be tested and certified by a laboratory accredited by the National Accreditation Board for Testing and
Calibration Laboratories (NABL) or by a classification society;
(ii) comply with the general requirements and test methods as per IS 17017 (Part 21);
(iii) successfully undergo environmental testing in accordance with the IS 9000 series or any equivalent
standard.
(b) the battery compartmentsshall be clearly marked, adequately ventilated, and accessible only to authorised personnel;
(c) a suitable fire detection and suppression system shall be provided for battery compartments, and in the case of highcapacity battery installations, such system shall preferably be of clean agent type;
(d) a periodic maintenance schedule shall be maintained on board and shall be carried out by qualified or certified
personnel;
(3) The Battery Management System shall–
(a) record and store operational parameters and fault data for a minimum period of one hundred and eighty
days;
(b) be made available for inspection during surveys, audits, or any investigation following an incident.
(4) The provisions of the Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules, 2024 shall apply to canal cruise boats in
respect of the components not covered by these rules, subject to such adaptations in methods, materials or
arrangements as may be considered necessary by the designated authority:
Provided such adaptation in methods, materials or arrangements shall not dilute the requirements relating to structural
integrity, watertight integrity, stability, freeboard, fire safety, machinery safety and essential safety systems.
Notwithstanding anything contained in above sub-rule 11, in respect of canal cruise boats constructed from wood or
fibre reinforced plastic or glass reinforced plastic or similar composite materials, designated authority may grant
exemption from the requirement of collision bulkheads.
Provided that alternative safety measures, duly assessed and approved by the designated authority, are implemented
so as to achieve a level of safety not less than that required under Inland Vessels (Design and Construction) Rules,
2024.
29. Threshold of Compliance. – (1) Every existing canal cruise boat, operating prior to the commencement of these
rules, shall continue to comply with the requirements applicable to such vessels before the coming into force of
these rules:
Provided that whenever such vessels undergoes a conversion, modification, or replacement, the provisions of
these rules shall apply to such conversion, modification, or replacement.
(2) No certificate of survey shall be issued to any canal cruise boat unless such vessel complies with the applicable design,
construction, automation, navigation, safety, and control standards specified in these rules.
(3) Canal cruise boats undertaking only daytime voyages may be exempted from requirement of crew accommodation as
may be considered necessary by the designated authority.
CHAPTER 7
MANNING REQUIREMENTS FOR PLEASURE CRAFTS AND CANAL CRUISE BOATS
30. Application of Chapter 7.– This Chapter shall apply to all pleasure crafts and canal cruise boats.
31. General requirements for crew.— Every crew member of pleasure crafts and canal cruise boats shall–
(a) be a citizen of India;
(b) have attained the age of eighteen years;
(c) be in sound health and physically fit to perform assigned duties;
(d) possess a valid medical fitness certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner;
(e) have successfully completed such basic safety, security, and life-saving training courses as may be specified by the
Inland Waterways Authority of India for such category of vessels;
(f) hold a valid licence appropriate to his role and the type of vessel, issued by the designated authority.
32. Form and equivalence of licence.— (1) The licence shall be issued to the crew by the designated authority in
Form B and, upon issuance, shall be deemed to be a Certificate of Competency for the purposes of operating the
specified category of pleasure craft or canal cruise boat.
(2) The licence for crew of pleasure crafts shall be issued upon completion of training and grant of certificate by a
Certification Authority in Form A;
Explanation.– “Certification Authority”, for the purposes of this rule and rule 32, means-
(a) the National Institute of Water Sports (NIWS); or
(b) any other Central Government funded training institute approved by the Inland Waterways Authority of India;
or
(c) any private or State Government funded training institutes approved by the State Government,
responsible for providing training and issuing training completion certificate to operators of pleasure crafts operating
within inland waters as per the courses specified by Inland Waterways Authority of India.
(3) The procedure for approval shall be as per SCHEDULE-I of the Inland Waterways Authority of India) of Inland
Vessels (Manning) Rules, 2026.
(4) Every licence shall be valid for a period of five years and shall be renewed subject to completion of such refresher
or other training as may be specified by the Inland Waterways Authority of India.
33. Recording of manning. — (1) The minimum manning for each vessel under this Chapter shall be recorded by the
surveyor in the Certificate of Survey.
(2) The designated authority may specify additional crew for night operations or for operations under special
navigational or environmental conditions.
34. Qualification and training of operator and crew of pleasure crafts. – (1) Every operator of a pleasure craft
shall–
(a) have passed at least the eighth standard;
(b) possess a valid training completion certificate issued by a Certification Authority;
(c) hold a valid boat operator’s licence issued by the designated authority as per Form B;
(d) have successfully completed a Life Saving Techniques (LST) course covering all components of the Basic
Safety and Security Course from Certification Authority, and shall hold a valid certificate of such course;
(e) have undergone training in vessel operation, navigation, and emergency procedures as may be specified by
the Inland Waterways Authority of India for such category of vessels; and
(f) demonstrate the ability to swim a distance of at least one hundred metres in free style within five minutes in
still water.
(2) Every crew of a pleasure craft shall–
(a) have basic vessel handling and safety skills;
(b) have experience and knowledge of safety equipment and procedures;
(c) have experience and basic knowledge of onboard machinery;
(d) have successfully completed a Life Saving Techniques (LST) course covering all components of the Basic
Safety and Security Course from Certification Authority, and shall hold a valid certificate of such course;
(e) have undergone on-the-job training under the supervision of an experienced operator of a pleasure craft;
(f) demonstrate the ability to swim a distance of at least one hundred metres in free style within five minutes in
still water.
35. Qualification and training of master, engine driver and crew of canal cruise boat.– (1) Every master or engine
driver of a canal cruise boat shall–
(a) be minimum 8th class passed;
(b) have completed basic safety and security course as per Inland Vessels (Manning) Rules, 2026;
(c) have experience and knowledge of equipment, machinery, systems and maintenance;
(d) be proficient in operation of canal cruise boats or houseboats; and
(e) have experience in navigation and handling of vessel as a deckhand or GP rating for three years for Master or
experience in operation and maintenance as a crew or GP rating (engine side) for three years for Engine Driver;
(f) have training in vessel operation and safety procedures as may be specified by the Inland Waterways Authority of
India for such category of vessels and hold a valid licence issued by the designated authority in Form B;
(g) demonstrate the ability to swim a distance of at least one hundred metres in free style within five minutes in still
water;
(h) possess knowledge of safety equipment and emergency procedures;
44 THE GAZETTE OF INDIA : EXTRAORDINARY [PART II—SEC. 3(i)]
(i) possess knowledge of navigation, communication and signal equipments for masters;
(j) have knowledge of machinery and systems for engine driver.
(2) Every crew of a canal cruise boat shall–
(a) have knowledge of canal cruise boat systems and maintenance;
(b) have experience in hospitality services if being engaged for related work;
(c) demonstrate the ability to swim a distance of at least one hundred metres in free style within five minutes in still
water;
(d) have knowledge of safety equipment and emergency procedures;
(e) have completed basic safety and security course as per Inland Vessels (Manning) Rules, 2026.
36. Approval of training institutes for training and certification of crew of pleasure craft and canal cruise boat.
– (1) The institute conducting the training for pleasure crafts shall be approved by Inland Waterways Authority of India
for Central Government Institute.
(2) The private or State Government institute in a State shall be approved by the designated authority of the State.
(3) The procedure for approval shall be as per SCHEDULE-I of the Inland Waterways Authority of India) of Inland
Vessels (Manning) Rules, 2026.
(4) The institute conducting the training for canal cruise boats shall be approved by the Inland Waterways Authority of
India for the Central Government Institute.
(5) The private or State Government institute in a State shall be approved by the designated authority of the State.
(6) The procedure for approval shall be as per SCHEDULE-I of the Inland Vessels (Manning) Rules, 2026.
37. Responsibilities of operator of pleasure crafts and master of canal cruise boats. -The responsibilities of operator
of pleasure crafts and master of canal cruise boats shall be to –
(a) ensure the safe navigation and operation of the vessel;
(b) conduct pre-departure safety checks and briefings;
(c) maintain compliance with all rules and regulation;
(d) oversee the safety of all passengers and crew;
(e) maintain log books.
38. Crew training requirement and composition. – (1) The minimum crew size, their qualification and composition
based on the type and size of the pleasure craft shall be as per the following table:
(2) Every canal cruise boat shall have –
(a) a master, engine driver and a crew for sailing canal cruise boats having less than 20 pax capacity;
(b) one master, one engine driver and two crew for sailing canal cruise boats having 20 to 50 pax capacity;
(c) one master and two crew for battery operated or semi-automated boats;
(d) additional manpower for night cruise as may be specified by designated authority;
(3) For stationary and moored canal cruise boats, designated authority may reduce manning requirements, without
affecting the safety of passengers, crew and equipment.
39. Threshold of compliance. – The existing crews of pleasure crafts and canal cruise boats shall, within a period of
three years, comply with the training requirements laid down in these rules, subject to obtaining necessary license from
the designated authority within one year from the date of commencement of these rules.
40. Eligibility for Serang or Engine Driver II.– The existing pleasure craft operators with six years’
experience or canal cruise boat crew with five years’ experience on such vessels, out of which one year
experience as operator or master or driver, shall be eligible for Serang or Engine Driver II.
Signed by Surveyor or designated authority
[F. No. IWT-II-12011/1/2026-IWT-II]
Dr. KAMALA KANTA NATH, Adviser (Statistics)
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