Mandatory Towing Vessel Requirement Proposed for Emergency Response at Indian Ports

In light of recent maritime mishaps, the Directorate General of Shipping has suggested that all Indian ports handling 10 million metric tonnes (MMT) or more of cargo annually must designate at least one tug for emergency response. This proposal comes after significant incidents exposed weaknesses in the current emergency response system.

Representative image

India's growing maritime trade has led to increased vessel traffic and navigational risks along its coastline. Despite this growth, the availability of maritime salvage and emergency towing capabilities remains limited. The sinking of the container ship MSC ELSA 3 in May 2025 and the fire on WAN HAI 503 in June 2025 highlighted these vulnerabilities.

Emergency Tug Requirements

The draft notice mandates that designated tugs must be sea-going and equipped for emergencies like firefighting, towing, and pollution response. These vessels are crucial for providing timely assistance to the Indian Coast Guard and Navy, who are often the first responders to such incidents.

Incidents such as fires, machinery failures, and groundings occur frequently along the Indian coast, particularly during monsoon months. These events underscore the urgent need for deploying tugs for towing and other functions like firefighting and resource supply to accident sites.

Current Emergency Towing Arrangements

Currently, two Seagoing Emergency Towing Vessels (ETVs) are stationed at Mumbai and Chennai ports. These ETVs usually function as harbour tugs but are deployed for emergencies under the Directorate's orders. They operate under the guidance of the On-Scene Commander from the Indian Coast Guard.

The draft notice also highlights that ports maintaining a fleet of two or more tugs for operations must allocate one specifically for emergencies. This requirement applies to both major and non-major ports, whether public or private.

The proposed changes aim to enhance India's maritime safety by ensuring that ports are better prepared for emergencies. Stakeholders have been invited to provide feedback on this draft notice issued by India's maritime regulator.

The notice emphasises that with increasing cargo volumes and vessel traffic, ports must be equipped to handle emergencies effectively. This initiative seeks to address gaps in current capabilities and improve overall maritime safety along India's extensive coastline.

With inputs from PTI