Parliament passes Recycling of Ships Bill

Parliament has passed the Recycling of Ships Bill, 2019, with the Rajya Sabha approving it yesterday.

The Lok Sabha has already cleared it. The bill restricts the use of hazardous materials on ships and regulates recycling of ships. It defines ship recycling as dismantling it at a facility to recover the components and materials for reuse and taking care of the hazardous material so produced. Under the legislation, every ship recycler must ensure safe and environmentally sound removal and management of hazardous materials from a ship.

On contravening these provisions, the ship recycler will be liable to pay environmental damages and cleanup operation compensation as prescribed.

Shipping Minister, Mansukh Mandaviya moved the bill. He said the industry provides ample employment in the country and ten per cent steel requirement of the country is fulfilled from the recycling of



ships.

On the other hand, the Arms (Amendment) Bill, 2019 has been passed by the Lok Sabha yesterday.

It seeks to reduce the number of licensed arms per person and to increase the quantum of penalties for violation of the law. Celebratory firing will now be punishable.

Quantum of punishment for illegal manufacture, import or export, possession or buying and selling of firearms without permission has been enhanced. The license period for firearms would be increased from three to five years.

Replying to the discussion on the bill, Home Minister Amit Shah rejected allegations that it is aimed at appropriating the powers of the States. Mr Shah said sportspersons involved in archery and shooting need not be concerned about the restrictions on firearms.

He observed that celebratory firing has become a big menace.