The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DG Shipping), through M.S. Notice 5 of 2026, has declared Indian Coastal Waters as Sea Area A1 and Sea Area A2 under the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS) regulations. This change was made on 24 September 2026.
Coast Radio Stations established
The reclassification follows the establishment of 32 GMDSS-compliant Coast Radio Stations by the Indian Coast Guard. These stations have been acknowledged as Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) and Maritime Rescue Sub-Centres (MRSCs) along the Indian coast.
The previous designation of Indian Coastal Waters as Sea Area A3. The operationalization of these stations.
Ship owners, operators, and other related parties must now align with the specific carriage requirements under the Merchant Shipping (Radiocommunication) Rules, 2026. However, harbour and port crafts will continue with the specified equipment under Schedule XV of Rule 28.
The official document includes detailed technical specifics and coverage maps in Annexures I, II, and III.
Source: DG Shipping — M.S. Notice 5 of 2026 (PDF), dated 24 September 2026.
Compiled by the Maritime Briefs Desk from the official document. Details are as published by the issuing body; check the original for complete requirements.
