Maldives Transport Authority (MTA) has revised the safety regulations of sea transport, mandating life jackets to be worn under certain circumstances.
As per the latest amendment to the regulations, vessels operating in Maldivian waters are required to ensure life jackets are worn by all crew members and passengers under some circumstances. As such life jackets should be worn if the vessel is travelling amid a weather alert issued by the MET Office, or if the vessel is under 9 metres in length. All vessels used as a public ferry, or to transport passengers must have life jackets in place to be worn easily during an emergency. Passengers must be provided information on how to use the life jackets before starting the trip.
Furthermore, the amended regulation bans vessels under 9 metres in length from carrying any passengers during a red or orange alert situation. However, exceptions are provided for trips authorised by a government institution for emergency purposes.
Furthermore, the regulation states all vessels must ensure the captains, crew members and marine mechanics are on board in the numbers required by the regulations based on the category of the vessel. All captains, crew members and marine mechanics are required to be locals.
The regulation states a fine of USD 970 can be imposed on the operator of a vessel under 9 metres in length if any clauses of the regulations are violated. Operators of vessels above 9 metres in length can be fined by USD 1,295.