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Why in the News?
Recently, Union Government has issued Draft Indian Ports Bill, 2022 for Stakeholder Consultation.
- The draft IP Bill 2022 seeks to repeal and replace the existing 1908 Act.
Need for the Bill:
- India has a 7,500 km long coastline, 14,500 km of potentially navigable waterways and strategic location on key international maritime trade routes.
- About 95% of India’s trade by volume and 65% by value is done through maritime transport facilitated by ports.
- The Indian Ports Act, 1908 is more than 110 years old.
- It has become imperative that the Act is revamped to reflect the present-day frameworks, incorporate India’s international obligations, address emerging environmental concerns.
Key provisions of the Bill:
- It seeks to amend and consolidate legislation for containment, prevention of pollution and facilitate compliance with the country’s maritime treaties and international instruments.
- Take measures for conservation of ports.
- Empower and establish State Maritime Boards for effective administration.
- Control and management of non-major ports in India.
- Provide adjudicatory mechanisms for redressal of port-related disputes.
- Establish a national council for fostering structured growth and development of the port sector.
Significance:
- It will homogenize and streamline the development of the maritime sector.
- Promote ease of doing business by eliminating unnecessary delays, disagreements and defining responsibilities.
- Instill confidence and promote healthy competition in maritime sector.
- Lead to increased economic activity, wider markets, and a significant increase in associated employment possibilities.
Conclusion:
- The ongoing developments and committed investments (public and private) in ports need to be aided by scientific and consultative planning, with a keen focus on ever increasing safety, security and environmental issues.
News Source: PIB
