The Gujarat Maritime Board on February 27, 2024, issued the Gujarat Ports (Licensing of Persons Engaged in Loading and Unloading Vessels) Regulations, 2024, in exercise of the powers conferred by sections 110 and 111 of the Gujarat Maritime Board Act, 1981 and in supersession of the Gujarat Ports (Licensing of Persons Engaged in Loading and Unloading Vessels) Rules, 1969.
These Regulations shall apply to all loading and unloading activities at ports under the jurisdiction of the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), except for the following, exempted activities:
• Ship recycling and shipbuilding activities.
• Where loading and unloading activities are undertaken by the Board itself at respective ports.
• Loading and unloading activities related to defence vessels or fishing and associated activities.
• Where the Board has issued an exemption certificate
The following provisions have been stated:
• No person or entity to undertake stevedoring activities without a licence.
• Categories of Licenses.
• Criteria for issuance of licenses.
• Issue of license.
• Renewal of license.
• Issuance of a duplicate license.
• Procedure for Issuance of Exemption Certificate.
• Duties and responsibilities of Licensees.
• Prevention of Monopolistic Situation at the Port.
• Imposition of penalty and suspension or cancellation of licence.
• Appeal.
• Treatment to forfeiture, Refund security deposit.
• Penalties.
• Power of Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.
• Common Ownership or Control of Multiple Licensees.
• Savings.
They shall come into force on February 27, 2024.
[Notification No. GMB/T/1/2024/S.L./55]
