ALERTS
Modification of the National Regulations to Prevent Collisions in Navigable Rivers
The Directorate General of Coast Guard (DICAPI) has issued Directorial Resolution No. 016-2025 MGP/DICAPI, which modifies Annex A “National Regulations to Prevent Collisions in Navigable Rivers”, approved by Directorial Resolution No. 786-2021/MGP/DICAPI.
This update seeks to respond to the need to modernize the safety provisions in river navigation, thus aligning them with technological advances and the logistical and economic conditions of transport in the Amazon region. The amendment introduces key changes to the rules on towing and pushing convoys, seeking to improve the safety and efficiency of river transport.
Main modifications:
Modification of Article 3 (Prohibitions)
- It is prohibited for a vessel to tow or push more than two vessels.
- Night navigation of rafts and night towing of logs is prohibited.
- It is prohibited for a vessel engaged in fishery to hinder the transit of another vessel navigating within a narrow channel or passage.
- Approach or overtaking maneuvers in curves that hinder visibility for river navigation or narrow areas are prohibited.
Modification of Article 23 of Subchapter IV – Towing and Pushing Convoy
- Establishes that the new guidelines for the conformation of river convoys will be regulated in complementary rules.
- Subchapter IV applies to all towing or pushing convoys, whether of national or foreign flag, operating in the navigable rivers of Peru.
Modification of Article 25 of Subchapter IV – Towing and Pushing Convoy (Rules for Pushing Convoy)
- Larger convoys are permitted to be formed, with additional safety measures.
- It requires the convoy organization to ensure symmetry and stability in navigation.
- It establishes that the maximum size of a convoy will depend on the navigation area and must ensure compliance with the rules to prevent collisions.
- Push convoys are required to have operational GPS and radar for navigation.
- The obligation to use special flags and lights in convoys carrying dangerous goods is introduced.
- It regulates overtaking maneuvers, signaling in curves and narrow areas, and coordination between convoys in narrow channels.
- It establishes that navigation must be avoided when visibility is less than 500 meters and establishes protocols in case of fog or adverse weather conditions.
- It establishes that, in heavy rain or floods, convoys must take extreme precautions and moor in safe areas if navigation is risky.
- It requires the implementation of a Navigation Plan before starting towing/pushing operations, considering routes, river traffic and weather conditions.
The update of Annex A seeks to adopt an approach similar to that of Brazil and Colombia and to improve the competitiveness of the Peruvian river sector and reduce operating costs without compromising safety.
For further information, please contact Omar Córdova (ocordova@estudiorodrigo.com) and/or Sabrina Montoya (smontoya@estudiorodrigo.com).
