The Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) on October 11, 2024, issued a Draft MS Notice on the subject Installation of Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) Systems on Indian-Flagged Vessels.
The recent incidents aboard vessels, including personnel disappearances, potential suicides, collisions, casualties, and other maritime security concerns, have prompted a thorough reassessment of existing safety protocols and the implementation of more robust security measures.
In view of its commitment to safeguarding the well-being of seafarers and upholding the highest standards of maritime safety and security, has carefully evaluated various solutions to address these pressing concerns. After extensive deliberation and consultation, installing Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) systems on all Indian-flagged merchant vessels has been identified as a necessary and effective measure to enhance onboard safety & security and provide valuable documentation in the event of incidents.
The following is being mandated:
• All existing Indian-flagged vessels with a gross tonnage exceeding 3000 GT shall be required to install Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) systems:
o During their next scheduled dry-docking, or
o Within twenty-four (24) months from the date of issuance of this circular, whichever occurs first.
• Any vessel undergoing conversion from a foreign flag and being registered into the Indian registry shall be required to install CCTV systems:
o Within twelve (12) months of the issuance of the permanent certificate of registry, or
o Within twenty-four (24) months from the date of issuance of this circular, whichever occurs later.
• All newly constructed vessels being registered under the Indian Flag, irrespective of size, shall have CCTV systems installed and fully operational prior to the commencement of sea trials.
• The CCTV installation should preferably meet the standard 'IEC 62676 — Video Surveillance Systems for use in security applications'.
• The deficiency with respect to CCTV installation shall not be considered detainable during the Flag State inspections. The ship owners/managers should be given a reasonable time period for rectification of deficiencies (if any) noted in CCTV installations during the inspections.
• The vessel's safety management system shall be updated to incorporate CCTV protocols and align with ISM Code requirements.
Kindly send the inputs/comments by October 25, 2024 by email to [email protected] and cc to: [email protected] & [email protected].
[File No.: 25-63/12/2024-NT – DGS]
