India: verification of completion of oil spill removal

The Directorate General of Shipping, India has issued the DGS Circular No. 17 of 2023 regarding the verification of completion of oil spill removal from vessels.

When maritime casualties occur, such as sinking, capsizing, or vessel damage, which pose a risk of oil pollution to Indian waters, this Directorate issues Notices to the Owner, Charterer, Operator, Agent, Master, and Crew of the vessel under Section 356(J) of the M.S Act, 1958.

These Notices instruct them to promptly take measures to prevent and minimize pollution as required.

In such situations, the Directorate collaborates with stakeholders including the Owner, Charterer, Operator, Agent, Master, and Crew, urging them to take immediate action to control and prevent pollution.

When it concerns these vessels, such actions may involve the removal of oil from the vessel.

While coordinating with various agencies, authorities, and stakeholders in such cases, this Directorate shares responsibility for the effectiveness and efficiency of the actions taken to control and/or prevent pollution.

However, the ultimate responsibility for ensuring the effectiveness of these actions lies with the relevant agency or authority, such as ports, state maritime board or authority, offshore terminal operator, or the Indian coast guard, depending on the vessel's location.

Hence, the concerned authority or agency, while ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of the actions being taken, is accountable for verifying that all the oil has been properly removed from the vessel, particularly in cases where oil removal is involved.

This circular was issued on 14 July 2023.

For more information, please see the document below (available only to subscribers):