It has been notices that a number of gas carriers built prior to 1976 do not conform to the requirements of GC Code and hence pose a serious risk to the environment and habitat. These vessels may not comply, inter alia, with the vital requirements of protectively located cargo tanks and ship survival capability in the event of damage. There have been a number of incidents that have resulted in total loss of such vessels. Any casualty incident should occur in port areas which are invariably located near densely populated regions. Being conscious about the hazards that these vessels pose to the environment, life and property, the Director General of Shipping has already made it mandatory for all Indian flag gas carriers built prior to 1976 to carry a ‘Certificate of Fitness” under GC Code as amended. Stemming from the national concerns for the safety and protection of the infrastructure of Ports and Harbours and the marine environment, the Director General of Shipping with the approval of the Central Government hereby makes it mandatory for all foreign flag gas carriers built prior to 1976 to comply with the provisions of the Gas Carrier Code (GC Code) and have a valid “Certificate of Fitness” under the GC Code, if the vessels are to ply on the Indian coast and to operate from Indian ports. All concerned may take cognizance of the above notice.
Sd/-
(A. Chatterjee)
Deputy Chief Surveyor with the Govt. of India