The proposed rules aim to regulate mechanically and non-mechanically propelled watercraft, improve ghat management and promote river tourism, among others.The system is intended to improve the identification and monitoring of boats operating across the state. Uttar Pradesh is preparing a new regulatory framework for river transport, with the proposed Inland Watercraft Rules, 2026, mandating unique registration numbers for boats and introducing stricter passenger safety requirements.The proposed rules aim to regulate mechanically and non-mechanically propelled watercraft, improve ghat management and promote river tourism and other economic activities along major rivers, including the Ganga, Yamuna, Ghaghara, Gomti, Gandak and Betwa.According to the state Transport Department, the framework provides for two separate funds to support the sector.A State Development Fund for mechanically propelled watercraft will be financed through fees and penalties collected from water transport operations, while district-level welfare funds will support activities related to non-mechanically propelled watercraft and the welfare of boat operators.

Under the proposed registration system, mechanically propelled watercraft will receive unique identification numbers comprising 10 digits or letters, while non-mechanically propelled boats will be assigned 12-character identification numbers.The system is intended to improve the identification and monitoring of boats operating across the state. The rules also specify the authorities responsible for registration.

Assistant Regional Transport Officers (Administration) at the district level will register mechanically propelled watercraft, while Motor Vehicle Inspectors at the district level and Assistant Motor Vehicle Inspectors at the tehsil level will handle registrations of non-mechanically propelled boats.The National Inland Navigation Institute (NINI), Patna, has been designated to survey and assess watercraft.Passenger safety is another key component of the proposed framework. Ghats will be required to have permanent lighting, signboards, life buoys and divers.Local bodies, development authorities and district committees will be responsible for defining arrangements for the leasing, maintenance, operation and safety of ghats.A district-level committee headed by the District Magistrate will be constituted to prevent boat accidents.Operators will also be required to provide passengers with safety-related information before every journey.The proposed rules prescribe life jackets equivalent to 110% of a boat’s permitted passenger capacity, along with a 10-metre rope and a first-aid kit on board.Emergency rescue boats will also be provided at a ratio of one for every 10 watercraft to facilitate swift rescue operations.The state government expects the framework to improve safety and accountability in passenger transport, traditional boating and cargo movement while supporting river-based tourism and local livelihoods.The proposed rules have been prepared under the Inland Vessels Act, 2021, and will replace Uttar Pradesh’s existing 2002 rules.They comprise 16 chapters, with the first 14 dealing with mechanically propelled watercraft, Chapter 15 covering non-mechanically propelled watercraft and Chapter 16 containing general provisions applicable to both categories.Existing watercraft will be given 90 days to comply with the new standards before the rules come into force.In case of any inconsistency, the provisions of the central Act and rules will prevail.- Ends