The Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB) has received approval from the state government to introduce six new policies and regulatory frameworks aimed at strengthening the state’s port infrastructure and overall maritime ecosystem. According to officials, the policies will be formally announced soon.
The comprehensive framework includes new guidelines for shipbuilding and repair, land management, land reclamation, and the implementation of a Vessel Traffic Management System (VTMS) for the Gulf of Khambhat. Additionally, two separate regulations will support the operationalisation of the Gujarat Inland Vessels Act, covering Category A, B, and C vessels—ranging from commercial craft to leisure boats operating within city limits.
Officials said the new shipbuilding and repair policy is designed to encourage investments in shipyards, dry docks, repair and fabrication facilities, and marine component manufacturing units. The policy aims to create an enabling environment for the development of modern maritime infrastructure across the state.
The land management policy consolidates multiple circulars and fragmented guidelines into a unified regulatory framework governing all land vested, procured, acquired, reclaimed, or managed by GMB. A separate land reclamation policy will streamline procedures for the utilisation, leasing, and regulation of reclaimed zones.
The upcoming VTMS policy will outline ownership, operations, maintenance responsibilities, and staffing standards for monitoring vessel traffic in the Gulf of Khambhat—one of the busiest and most environmentally sensitive maritime regions in Gujarat.
Two new sets of rules for inland vessels will also be notified—one for Category A and B vessels, and another for Category C vessels, which include pleasure crafts under 10 metres. These rules will define procedures for vessel surveys, registration, detention, and pollution control, aligning with national guidelines while addressing Gujarat’s specific operational and environmental requirements.
The policies are expected to provide greater clarity, improve regulatory efficiency, and support the state’s ambition to strengthen its maritime and port ecosystem.
