The Turkish Ministry of Transport and Infrastructure has issued a notice to inform of reinforced anchoring regulations in the Southern Entrance Anchorage Areas of the Istanbul Strait, emphasizing strict compliance.
According to the notice, it has been observed that, from time to time, vessels and marine craft fail to anchor in accordance with the prescribed anchoring rules. In particular, it has been identified that vessels anchoring in the Southern Entrance Anchorage Areas of the Bosphorus are dropping anchor outside the designated anchorage zones, thereby posing a risk of damage to subsea infrastructure such as cable systems and petroleum and natural gas pipelines.
In order to prevent possible incidents, shipping agents are required to inform the ship’s master and other responsible parties prior to anchoring operations in the Southern Entrance Anchorage Areas of the Istanbul Strait and the anchorage zones under the authority of the Ambarlı Regional Port Authority, with respect to the following matters:
- The vessel shall not anchor outside the designated anchorage zone.
- The responsibility for necessary monitoring and precautionary measures against potential anchor dragging lies with the ship’s master.
- In the event of anchoring outside the designated zones, administrative sanctions may be imposed under the applicable legislation.
- If it is determined that the vessel is located outside the designated anchorage area, the relevant Port Authority may assign an escort tugboat, regardless of whether any damage to subsea infrastructure has occurred.
- In the event that the vessel is deemed to pose a potential hazard, all related expenses, including underwater hull and keel inspections, shall be borne by the ship’s operator or responsible parties.
Inspections and oversight are being carried out by our Administration in accordance with the applicable legislation for the purpose of ensuring the safety of navigation, life, property, and the environment.
