GUWAHATI: The Lok Sabha on Thursday, April 3, passed the Coastal Shipping Bill, 2024, which has been introduced to regulate vessels engaged in trade within India’s coastal waters. The bill was cleared by voice vote after a debate on its implications and impact.
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Union Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, who moved the bill for passage, termed it a “strategic and futuristic law” that would help unlock India’s maritime potential and promote coastal shipping as a low-cost and sustainable alternative to road and rail transport. He highlighted that the bill also aligns with the National Logistics Policy and will provide a dedicated legal framework to boost coastal trade.
The legislation defines coastal waters as India’s territorial waters and adjoining maritime zones, covering up to 200 nautical miles from the coast. Sonowal argued that current regulations do not align with global best practices, and the bill would reduce bureaucratic hurdles while increasing India’s global shipping presence.
However, opposition MPs in the Sabha raised concerns regarding the bill’s impact on fishermen and the role of states in coastal governance. Congress MP Manickam Tagore criticised the government for overlooking fishermen’s struggles, particularly in Tamil Nadu and Gujarat. He demanded weather alerts, mandatory life vests, and tax reductions on coastal shipping.
Samajwadi Party MP Naresh Chandra Uttam Patel opposed the concentration of power in the hands of the central government, while Trinamool Congress MP Sougata Roy called for a minimum employment quota for Indian seafarers and a provision requiring 50% of domestic cargo to be transported by Indian vessels.
DMK MP D. M. Kathir Anand opposed the bill as well, warning of environmental risks such as oil spills affecting fishermen. TDP MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu further highlighted the aging Indian fleet, calling for low-cost financing to modernise the sector.
BJP MP Arun Govil, however, supported the bill, stating it would enhance efficiency and promote Indian shipping companies.
