In a major move to enhance maritime safety, the Indian Directorate General of Shipping has mandated the installation of CCTV systems on all Indian-flagged vessels of 500 gross tonnage or more, reports Marine Insight.
This regulation applies to both new and existing ships, with a compliance deadline set for February 12, 2028, or the next classification renewal survey, whichever comes later. Foreign-flagged vessels of similar size that call at Indian ports are also encouraged to adopt similar measures, though it is not mandatory for them at this stage.
Increasing number of unexplained crew disappearances
The decision comes amid growing concerns over the increasing number of unexplained crew disappearances, man-overboard incidents, and collisions at sea. In many of these cases, a lack of surveillance footage made it difficult to determine what had happened, delaying emergency responses and hampering investigations. By making CCTV mandatory, authorities aim to improve real-time visibility and accountability on board ships, allowing for faster and more effective responses to emergencies.
The new guidelines specify that cameras must be strategically placed in key areas of the vessel, including the main deck, mooring stations, the forecastle, bridge, stern, and superstructure. These systems must be capable of functioning in various lighting and weather conditions, meaning night vision and high-resolution imaging are essential. Ships will also be required to ensure proper data storage to retain footage for post-incident reviews.
Additionally, the regulation encourages the use of AI-powered monitoring systems. These technologies can enhance situational awareness, detect unusual movements or behaviors, and support search-and-rescue efforts when someone goes overboard. They also offer the benefit of alerting crew in real-time if an incident occurs, helping to prevent minor issues from escalating.
This mandate reflects India’s growing focus on improving maritime security standards, not just for the safety of crew members but also to align with evolving international expectations. While initially aimed at Indian-flagged ships, the regulation may influence global shipping practices as other countries observe the outcomes of its implementation. For shipowners and operators, this change signals the need to invest in advanced surveillance infrastructure and integrate it into existing safety protocols. In the long run, it could help set a new standard for accountability and safety across the maritime industry.
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Source: Marine Insight
