Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has approved the Uttar Pradesh Inland Vessels Rules, 2026, paving the way for stricter regulation of boats and steamers operating on the state’s rivers. The proposed framework seeks to make registration mandatory, strengthen passenger and boat operator insurance, and improve safety standards and water transport management.
The rules will cover 11 major rivers, including the Ganga, Yamuna, Saryu and Ghaghara. Transport Minister Dayashankar Singh said an Inland Water Authority would be established to oversee water transport in the state, with the transport minister serving as its chairperson.
The initiative is also expected to support river tourism, environmentally friendly cargo transportation and local logistics while improving accountability and maintaining systematic records of vessels and their operators.
New Rules to Replace 2002 Framework
The proposed rules will replace the Uttar Pradesh Inland Vessels Rules, 2002, and have been drafted in accordance with the Inland Vessels Act, 2021. The framework comprises 16 chapters, covering mechanically operated vessels, non-mechanised boats and provisions governing the operation and regulation of both categories.
Chapters 1 to 14 deal with mechanically propelled vessels, Chapter 15 addresses non-mechanised boats, and Chapter 16 contains provisions applicable to both types of vessels.
Registration Fees Based on Passenger Capacity
Under the proposed system, registration will be compulsory for mechanised and non-mechanised boats, as well as steamers operating on the identified rivers. Registration fees will be determined according to passenger capacity. A fee of ₹50 has been proposed for non-mechanised boats.
The registration process is intended to create an organised database of vessels and their operators, including small boat owners and those working in the unorganised sector. This is expected to improve identification, monitoring and enforcement of operating requirements.
Insurance and Safety Measures
The proposed rules place emphasis on insurance coverage for passengers and boat operators. By establishing clearer registration requirements and safety standards, the government aims to reduce the risk of accidents and strengthen accountability in inland water transport.
The framework is intended to bring greater consistency to vessel operations while ensuring that safety requirements extend to smaller boats and operators who may previously have remained outside a formal registration system.
Existing Vessels to Get 90 Days
Before the rules are formally notified, the draft will undergo prior publication in accordance with Section 107 of the Inland Vessels Act, 2021.
Once the rules come into force, existing vessels operating in the state will be given 90 days to comply with the new requirements and adopt the prescribed standards.
The proposed framework marks a move towards a more structured inland water transport system in Uttar Pradesh, with registration, insurance and safety compliance forming its central elements.
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