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WATER SPORTS REGULATIONS OF PAKISTAN

(FOR SEA/COASTAL AREAS)

2019

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Preface

With Pakistan’s coastline spanning about a thousand kilometers, every inch of it provides a sensational opportunity for tourism. All the beaches along Pakistan’s coast have huge prospects for development and conduct of a wide variety of water sports: parasailing, scuba diving, surfing, sailing, speed boating/water scooter riding, sea kayaking etc. Karachi is Pakistan’s largest city and currently the hub of all water sports which are carried out in Pakistan. Currently majority of watersports activities carried out by private individuals are being run on ad-hoc basis without defined set of safety standards. This is also largely due to the fact that there has been no facilitation by the government to provide any framework which sets guidelines to be adhered by.

The watersports Regulations at sea aims to provide an extensive framework for the administering water sports in coastal areas of Pakistan. Water sports are part and parcel of the Coastal Tourism sector, unfortunately this sector could not get focused attention, and as a result water sports activities have gone unregulated without any institutional oversight and laws. The proposed watersports regulations would be helpful to build up a sustainable coastal tourism sector and water sports industry which would make Pakistan a favorable destination globally for coastal tourism and renowned for its water sports industry.

National Institute of Maritime Affairs was delegated by the Ministry of Defence to uptake this task of formulating the pioneering framework for regulating the water sports industry in Pakistan. After thorough research and consulting various stakeholder, NIMA presents this policy framework which is first of its kind hoping to promoted sustainable coastal tourism and water sports activities in Pakistan.

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Table of Contents

Abbreviations 3Glossary 4

CHAPTER – ONE: PAKISTAN WATER SPORTS REGULATIONS 5

Section 1: General Guidelines for Water Sports Operators 5Section 2: First Aid and Safety Equipment 5Section 3: Communication Equipment 6Section 4: Watersports Sites & Safety Considerations 6Section 5: Environmental Protection 7

CHAPTER – TWO: SNORKELING 8

Section 1: Snorkeling Equipment 8Section 2: Snorkeling boats 8Section 3: Essential staff and arrangements at sites prior to conducting Snorkeling 9Section 4: Documentation requirement 9

CHAPTER – THREE: SCUBA DIVING 10

Section 1: Dive Professionals 10Section 2: Standard Diving Equipment 11Section 3: Requirement for Water Sports Centers Offering Diving Services 11Section 4: Dive Boats 13Section 5: General Guidelines 13Section 6: Documentation requirement 13

CHAPTER – FOUR: OTHER WATER SPORTS 14

Section 1: Water Tubes and Towables 14Section 2: Personal Water Craft (Jet Ski, Water Scooter etc.) 15Section 3: Kayaking 16Section 4: Para Sailing 17

CHAPTER – FIVE: FORMULATION OF PAKISTAN DIVING REGULATORY AUTHORITY 19

CHAPTER – SIX: LICENSE/NOC BY WATER SPORTS CENTERS 21

Section 1: Requirement 21Section 2: Action required by operators before undertaking off shore activities 22

ANNEX – A: Registration procedure of harbour crafts From Mercantile Marine Department (MMD) 23ANNEX – B: Potential Sites for water sports and recreational activities in Pakistan 24ANNEX – C: Disclaimer Form (Indemnity and Medical disclaimer) 26ANNEX – D: Passenger/Crew Manifest, Information proforma before Undertaking Trip 28

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Abbreviations

AAAS Assistance, Anytime, Anywhere atSea

NCMPR National Center for Maritime Policy Research

AED Automatic External Defibrillator NIMA National Institute of Maritime Affairs

BCD Buoyancy Compensator NIWS National Institute of Water Sports

CMAS Confederacion Mundial De Actividades Subacuaticas

NOC No Objection Certificate

CNIC Computerized National Identity Card

NTN National Tax Number

CPR Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation PADI Professional Association of Diving Instructors

EFR Emergency First Response PFD Personal Floatation Device

EPA Environmental Protection Agency PDRA Pakistan Diving Regulatory Authority

FBR Federal Board of Revenue PN Pakistan Navy

IANTD International Association of Nitrox and Technical Divers

PWC Personal Water Craft

JMICC Joint Maritime Information Coordination Center

SDI Scuba Diving International

MoMA Ministry of Maritime Affairs SECP Securities and Exchange Commission Pakistan

MMD Mercantile Marine Department SOLAS Safety of Life at Sea

MPA Marine Protected Areas SSI Scuba Schools International

MSA Maritime Security Agency VHF Very High Frequency

NAUI National Association of Underwater Instructors

WSC Water Sports Company

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Glossary

Buoyancy Control Device Scuba diving gear similar to a vest which is responsible for a scubadiver’s buoyancy, whether at the surface or underwater during a dive.

Dive Instructor The level of diving certification which qualifies an individual to train and certify other divers.

Dive Master The level of diving certification which qualifies an individual to supervise and assist in diving activities.

Dive Professional An individual who is either a Dive Instructor or Dive Master.

Dive site A particular site where diving activity is carried out.

Fun Dive Diving carried out for sake of enjoyment and recreation with no intention of being done so to become a certified diver.

Water Sports Company An independent professional company which provides water sports services to customers/client

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CHAPTER – ONE: Pakistan Water Sports Regulations

Section 1: General Guidelines for Water Sports Operators

Those individuals/entrepreneurs who wish to start a water sports business must have registered business on NTN number obtained from FBR, or be a private Limited Company registered with SECP. Following general guidelines are issued for water sports operators:

1) Individuals/entrepreneurs (water sports operators) desirous to carry out water sports must have established their physical offices.2) Water sports operators must obtain license/NOC from regulator before undertaking any watersports activities. 3) Water sports operators must have qualified staff to conduct respective water sports activities.4) Water sports operators must maintain record of their customers/clients for whom they organize such activities and provide it to relevant authorities whenever asked.5) Boats used for transportation of customers and water sports activities must be registered with MMD in respective category (e.g. leisure boat, passenger boat, recreational boat etc.). (See at Annex A).6) Boats should have yearly valid inspection certificate issued by MMD.7) Boat crew must have relevant license from MMD. Number of boat crew may vary with size of boat.8) Boats must have the required number of life jackets for its passengers and crew (SOLAS standards or near to it would suffice).9) Water sports operators ensure that the number of passengers in the boat should not exceed as authorized in the license issued by the MMD.10) Weather assessment should be conducted by the water sports operators before initiating their activities.

Section 2: First Aid and Safety Equipment

1) Boats used for water sports activities must be equipped with necessary safety and lifesaving equipment, which should at least include:

a. Life buoys (minimum 2)b. Fire Extinguisherc. Signaling device (e.g. whistle, torch, lantern, glow stick etc.)d. First Aid kit. A first aid kit on boats should contain the following

i) Stomach remedies to prevent or treat motion sickness, indigestion, diarrhea, or heartburn

ii) Antihistamine, for allergic reactions

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iii) Insect repellantiv) Anti-itch lotion or cream for treating insect bites, sunburn, and

other minor skin irritationsv) Pain/fever reducers, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen,

ketoprofen or naproxenvi) Adhesive bandagesvii) Butterfly bandages and narrow adhesive strips, for gaping cutsviii) Sterile gauze pads (to control bleeding)ix) Hypoallergenic adhesive tape to hold a dressing or splint in placex) Cotton rollsxi) Sterile roller bandagesxii) Eye dropsxiii) Thermometerxiv) Syrup of Ipecac – if instructed by medical personnel to induce

vomitingxv) Antiseptic ointment for cleansing woundsxvi) Antibiotic ointment to prevent infection of minor woundsxvii) Bottled water to rinse woundsxviii) Clean towels (small and large), to control bleeding or as a wrap for

icexix) Ice packs

Section 3: Communication Equipment

1) Boats used for watersports activities should be equipped with necessary communication equipment for exchange of information in case of any emergency with shore authorities for assistance. The boats should be equipped with:

a. Marine VHF radios with fixed international channels. VHF radio inspection should be carried out by MMD. While using VHF radios and other communication means, the information be kept short and to the point.b. Cell phone.c. AAAS application for communication with JMICC.

Section 4: Watersports Sites & Safety Considerations

1) Water sports activities should only be carried out in the specified and designated areas. (See Annex B).2) Water sports should not be conducted in sea lanes of commercial maritime traffic/Port Channel unless special permission is sought from the relevant authorities.3) Water sports operators should ensure that no illegal item is carried in the boat while proceeding for watersports activities.4) Water sports operators should operate from established public/private jetties all along the coast for embarkation/dis-embarkation.

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Section 5: Environmental Protection

1) Water sports operators must ensure that no pollution or damage to marine environment is caused during their activities. They have to adhere to national/international laws pertaining to preservation of marine ecosystem.

2) Operators should strictly comply following:

a. Brief their customers on guidelines to keep marine environment clean.b. Operators should carry disposable garbage bags to collect litter.c. No garbage of any kind is to be littered in the sea.d. Avoid “single use plastic bags” (environmental friendly garbage collection bags may be carried).e. Arrangements be made for collection of garbage at sea and ensure its disposal onshore on completion of trip.f. Anchoring is strictly prohibited in coral reefs areas.g. Walking/making physical contact with coral is strictly forbidden.h. In order to protect damage to coral reefs from anchoring, mooring buoys be laid at dive sites/water sports sites. Operators must use mooring buoys instead of dropping anchors.j. Violations of above guidelines will be penalized as per national/international environmental protection laws and the operator will be liable to requisite legal punishment/penalty.k. In order to conduct water sports activities in MPAs, WSCs are to submit an undertaking not to harm marine life in these areas.

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CHAPTER – TWO:SNORKELINGSnorkelingIt is an aquatic activity that allows people to interact with the marine world using a snorkel and fins

Section 1: Snorkeling Equipment

1) Mask2) Fins (optional)3) Snorkels4) Personal Floatation Device (life jacket) with whistle

Section 2: Snorkeling boats

1) Boats must be customized to suit the requirement of snorkeling activities as per number of passengers, space for placing all essential safety, rescue and recovery gears and equipment, First Aid kit, Emergency Oxygen cylinder etc.2) Boat must have sufficient space to administer First Aid, CPR etc. to the victim.3) The boat should be well maintained and equipped with required engine power and certified by MMD.4) The boat should be equipped with two engines OR a rescue boat be available as standby in case of single engine.5) While onboard, everyone must wear Life Jackets of appropriate size.6) Snorkeling shall be carried out in safe waters without hindering passage of sea traffic and the site should be marked with markers (flags, rope etc.).7) Passengers in the boat including staff and crew should not exceed the limit specified in the registration documents issued by MMD.

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Section 3: Essential staff and arrangements at sites prior to conducting Snorkeling

1) One rescue diver be available at site.2) Adequate number of qualified life Guards should be in place; proportionate to number of snorkelers in water. Recommended lifeguard to snorkelers ratio is 1:8 (minimum 1 lifeguard for 8 snorkelers).3) Lifeguards must be certified from any governmental or non-governmental organization.4) Availability of (100%) emergency oxygen and an emergency plan ready in case of water related incidents at the snorkeling site. The emergency plan should include mechanisms for:

a. Search and recovery of missing snorkelers.b. Administering First Aid.c. Transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility.

Section 4: Documentation requirement (sample at Annex C)

1) Personal information of customers2) Indemnity statement3) Medical disclaimer4) Understanding of safe water sports practices and procedures.

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CHAPTER – THREE: Scuba Diving

Scuba DivingScuba diving is a form of underwater diving in which a diver uses a self-contained underwater breathing apparatus to breathe underwater. Scuba diving requires carrying own source of breathing gas, allowing greater freedom of movement and longer underwater endurance. Scuba equipment may be open circuit, in which exhaled gas is exhausted to the surroundings, or closed or semi-closed circuit, in which the breathing gas is scrubbed to remove carbon dioxide, and the oxygen used is replenished from a supply of feed gas before being re-breathed. A scuba diver usually moves around underwater by using swim fins attached to the feet.

Section 1: Dive Professionals

1) Dive professionals must have an up-to-date and valid license from a recognized national/international diving institute/ association [PADI, NAUI, CMAS, SDI, SSI, IANTD, Local Agency (when established) etc.].2) Dive professionals having instructor certification are authorized to teach/train and certify students for courses as per prescribed international/national standards.3) Dive professionals having Dive Master/Dive Supervisor certification are authorized to supervise/assist the students as per prescribed international/national standards.4) Individuals who are certified for recreational scuba diving are only authorized to carry out diving activities as per prescribed international/national standards.5) All diving activities should be conducted as mandated by relevant authorities.

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Section 2: Standard Diving Equipment

1) Mask, Fins, Snorkel (optional)2) First stage regulator, second stage regulator and Alternative Air Source (also known as Octopus) or redundant air supply with submersible pressure gauge3) Buoyancy Compensator Device (BCD) vest with oral and low pressure Inflator or a back plate. BCD or back plate must have the capacity to strap on a scuba cylinder.4) Time and depth measuring device.5) The use of dive computers are highly recommended for all divers.6) Emergency signaling device comprising inflatable surface balloon/surface marker buoys and whistle.7) Underwater torch and night signaling device for night diving activities.8) Integrated and Non-integrated weight suitable for scuba diving.9) Hydrostatically tested scuba diving cylinder10) If water temperature is below 23 degrees centigrade, thermal insulations should be used such as wetsuit, dry suit or similar.

Section 3: Requirement for Water Sports Centers Offering Diving Services

1) WSC should be:

a. Certified from National (when established)/international diving regulatory authority/ association (e.g. PADI, NAUI, CMAS, SDI, SSI, IANTD, etc.).b. Must have mandatory number of qualified diving professionals who have been certified by the relevant national/international authority to supervise and certify diving activities. WSC must fulfill the following minimum requirements:c. Must have at least one dive professional (dive instructor or dive master/supervisor/equivalent).d. Must ensure that it has adequate number of Diving professionals proportionate to number of activities it intends to conduct. Diving professional ratio to uncertified diver (customer) depends upon the competence level of customer. It however should not exceed 1:4.e. Should have adequate number of dive equipment in inventory proportional to strength of the dive team.f. Must be equipped with pure Oxygen on dive site and have an emergency plan ready in case of any diving related accidents. The emergency plan must include mechanisms for:

i) Searching methods in case of missing divers.ii) Providing First Aid Care.iii) Transport plan to the next appropriate medical facility.iv) Reporting to the concerned authorities (Maritime Security Agency,

JMICC, Coast Guard, Diving Regulator etc.).

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2) WSC offering ‘fun dive’ should have minimum:

a. 1 Certified Dive Professionalb. 1 in-water support staff (diver)c. Emergency First Responder/Basic Life Support staff as per requirement/group size.d. Instructor to diver ratio as per International/National diving standards.e. WSC must have a manager who is responsible for day to day activities and must be a certified diver.f. WSC should preferably have dive insurance for employees and customers,

including coverage for decompression chamber treatment.g. Dive Center must have its own website as per the standards and all activities that it offers should be furnished on it thereof. The fees for each type of activity, its duration, eligibility, broad contents for each course etc. must also be uploaded for the information of the Guest/trainees/customers.h. Irrespective of the type of activity- fun dive or training course, all customers should be given briefing sessions before conduct of respective diving activities.j. Necessary diving equipment for WSC:

i) Air and/or nitrox cylinders (appropriately marked and labeled).ii) Buoyancy Control Devices (BCDs) in various sizes approved for

recreational diving and with oral and low pressure Inflators. The BCD should be maintained according to manufacturer instructions.

iii) Regulators approved for recreational diving by the manufacturer and maintained according to manufacturer guidelines. These should have submersible pressure gauges and alternate air sources.

iv) Masks, fins, snorkels, wet suits maintained according to manufacturer guidelines.

v) Weights and weight belts or weight system.vi) Dive computers that provides depth, time and decompression

readings.vii) Dive tables must be available for divers to work out their dives manually.viii) Emergency signaling device –Surface marker buoy, whistle, dive light.ix) Underwater flashlights suitable for night diving.x) All WSC must maintain minimum equipment standards and must be

serviced accordingly to following timeline:k. Diving cylinders must be hydrostatically tested (every 5 Years) and visually inspected (every 1 year) or as per local laws.

i) Regulator 1 Yearsii) Compressor 1 Years

3) WSC should be in possession of certificates of servicing as issued by the equipment servicing authority.4) Air Quality test must be done every 6 months or every diving season

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Section 4: Dive Boats

1) Dive boats must suit the requirement of diving- number of passengers/capacity; space for placing of the filled cylinders, all essential safety, rescue and recovery gears and equipment- First Aid kit, Emergency Oxygen cylinder.2) The boat must have sufficient space to administer First Aid, CPR etc. to the victim.3) The boat should be equipped with two engines of or a rescue boat on standby in case of engine failure.4) The diving shall be undertaken only at designated sites, where all precautions as per the standards and requirements including demarcation of the site with mooring buoys etc. be ensured. (see Annex B)5) When diving, fly the flag. Ensure the flags are stiff, unfurled and in recognizable condition. (Diver’s Down Flag or Alpha Flag).

Section 5: General Guidelines

1) WSC should keep themselves aware of local weather conditions and inform divers of any special conditions at each dive site prior to the dive.2) Following Dives are prohibited:

a. Decompression Divesb. Dives deeper than 40mc. Diving in restricted areas

3) It is responsibility of divers to be considerate of and do not damage the marine environment, its associated living organisms and their habitats. Divers should be briefed by the dive instructor on responsible behavior whilst diving. NOC for conduct dive in MPA is to be obtained from concerned agency.

4) A diver is required to submit proof of his/her training by means of a diving certificate/license and to submit proof of his/her diving experience by means of a logbook/dive computer/dive card.

5) An individual who cannot submit an entry-level or higher certification must be considered a trainee and may only participate in training dives according to the standards of the training programs as conducted by diver training-agencies. Until certified, the individual is not authorized to conduct diving activities

6) If a WSC/dive professional is found to be negligent in supervision/violation of any rules, it shall be subject to appropriate action as deemed fit by the relevant authority.

Section 6: Documentation requirement (see Annex C)

1) Personal information of customers2) Indemnity statement3) Medical disclaimer4) Understanding of safe water sports/diving practices and procedures

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CHAPTER – FOUR: Other Water Sports

Section 1: Water Tubes and TowablesWater sports involving towing people behind a boat on skis, inflatable toys and boards

1) Equipment and Boat

a. Personnel Floatation Device such as life jackets and life vestsb. Recommended to use gloves to protect hands and improve gripc. The motorboat used for water skiing must have the appropriate engine power so as to maintain the necessary speed required to tow skiers.d. The maximum recommended length for a towrope or ski line is 23 meters and the minimum width is 8 millimeters in diameter with the capability to remain afloat.e. The cleat or point on the boat where line or rope attaches must be in excellent condition and capable to withstand the pull and momentum created by the boats speed.f. The motorboat must be manned by a minimum of two crew members (driver and observer)

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Section 2: Personal Water Craft (Jet Ski, Water Scooter etc.)

The activity of using a Personal water craft (PWC) to travel across water. It is a small machine similar to a motorcycle that is powered by a jet engine and can travel on the surface of water.

1) Equipment & General Guidelines

a. Life Jacketb. Minimum 10 meter tow line must be carried on boardc. Safety lanyard harnessed to the pilot in case he falls off, the PWC will come to a haltd. PWC must be operated under supervision of qualified staff.e. Individuals under 16 years of age and those learning should be accompanied by the qualified/trained staff.f. Individual operating PWC should be conscious of other people and boats in the water.g. Speed of the PWC should be controlled/monitored according an individual’s expertise, experience and comfort level.h. PWC should not be operated in closed proximity of shore to avoid collusionj. PWC is not permitted for use at night timek. Rescue boat/ Support boat must accompany PWC at all times

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Section 3: KayakingKayaking is a watersport that involves paddling using a double-bladed oar and a small boat known as a kayak.

1). Kayak and Equipment

a. Kayak should be sea worthy. It should have relevant certification from the manufacturer indicating its sea worthiness.b. 1 spare paddle in addition to one being used (per person)c. First aid kitd. Personal Floatation Devicee. A buoyant heaving line at least 15 meters longf. Navigation lights to be used in instances of low visibilityg. Water proof flash light

2) General Guidelines

a. Beginners should be made comfortable with sitting in the kayak by qualified staff.b. Kayakers should be briefed on emergency measures in case of mishaps (such as capsizing; how to get back into a kayak) by the water sports operator.c. A support boat should be present at all times while kayaking activity is taking place.

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Section 4: Para SailingParasailing is a water sports activity where a person is attached to an open, circular parachute that is towed behind a powered watercraft to sustain lift across the water.

1) Para Sailing Boat and Crew

a. For a single seated parasail, a speedboat/motorboat with:i) Minimum 5 meters in lengthii) Weight not less than 650kgs (vessel, engine, and gear)iii) Engine horsepower comparable to the vessel

b. For a double two seat parasail a speedboat/motorboat with:i) Minimum 5 meters in lengthii) Weight not less than 700kgs (vessel, engine and gear)iii) Engine of horsepower comparable to the vessel

c. The boat should have a built in launching board or platform.d. The motorboat must be manned by a minimum of 2 individuals: driver and observere. Two individuals manage and hold the chute in order to facilitate an easy and safe takeoff

2) Para Sailing Equipment

a. The diameter of the towrope attached to the parachute must be at least ten mm regardless its position and should have a crushing limit of more than 2 tonnes based on the manufacturer's specifications. The ropes must be maintained in perfect condition, free from any knots or kinks, with a maximum length of 120 meters and the ability to remain afloat since the beginning of the ''flight'' takes place in the platform.

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b. All individuals are required to wear a specially designed Personal Floatation Device (PFD) like lifejackets, life vests, in either red, green, yellow or orange colour during their flight.c. Installation of wind gauges at the point where the chute (speedboats launching board) lifts-off is must.d. Helmets and harness to ensure protection and comfort while parasailinge. Operator of a parasailing ship to make a thorough inspection of all parasailing equipment to be used each day and to keep a written record including the date of inspection, result of inspection and the name of the person who carried out the inspection. The inspection is to be carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications for the equipment and must include a full test of the winch.f. All equipment should be inspected, maintained, replaced and used according to manufacturer's specification for the equipment

3) General Guidelines

a. Parasailing is permitted only when the individual knows how to swim and is a minimum of eighteen (18) years of age. For minors, individuals under the minimum age but no less that fourteen (14) years, the parents or guardians maintain responsibility, must provide parental consent, in addition to confirming the minors ability to swim properly.b. Parasailing is prohibited during adverse weather conditions and prior to sunrise and after sunset hours.c. The takeoff and landing process while towing a parachute is prohibited when within 200 meters from the path of other vessels.d. Parasailing cannot be conducted within a 5km radius of an airport or airbase and above a height of 500feet.

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CHAPTER – FIVE: Formulation of Pakistan Diving Regulatory Authority (PDRA)

1. Diving is a watersport which entails adventure and fun as well. It is a skilled activity which require special training and fitness level to undertake it safely. Divers face specific physical and health risks when they go underwater with scuba or other diving equipment, or use high pressure breathing equipment. The environment exposes the diver to a wide range of hazards and though the risks are largely controlled by appropriate diving skills, training, types of equipment and breathing gases depending on the mode, depth and purpose of diving. There are various types of Diving which includes but not limited to:

a. Military (Combat) Divingb. Technical Divingc. Recreational Divingd. Professional Divinge. Public Safety Diving

2. Due to the inherent risks in conduct of Diving activities, there is a need to regularize Diving Operations to avoid any untoward incident by formulating rules and establishing standards. In this regard, Diving Regulatory Authorities exist all around the world for establishing standards and regulations. Some of the renowned Diving authorities/regulators (Governmental/Non-Governmental) in the world are as follows:

a. Australia: Verordrung 501; Druckluft and Taucherarbeiten Verordrungb. Canada: Recrative Underwater Diving 1997c. Maldives: Maldives Recreational Diving Regulations 2003d. South Africa; Diving Regulations 2009e. UK: (1) Diving at Work Regulation 1997

(2) Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009f. PADI, USA Professional Association of Diving Instructorsg. NAUI, USA National Association of Underwater Instructorsh. CMAS, Italy Confédération Mondiale des Activités Subaquatiques

3. In Pakistan, Diving is mainly undertaken by Pakistan Navy (PN) for its Military operations. PN has adopted Specific Qualification Standards derived from UK Military Diving Manual. It may be highlighted that no regulatory authority to regularize/certify the diving activities exist in Pakistan. Lately, Diving being adventurous sport has become popular amongst local population and few WSC do undertake this activity at their own risk. In the absence of regulatory framework, their activities have inherent risk of accidents if not conducted as per safety standards/regulations (certified by diving regulatory authorities).

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4. It is therefore proposed that Pakistan Diving Regulatory Authority (PDRA) may be formulated in order to streamline the Diving activities in Pakistan. Accordingly, establishment of PDRA (on the patron of such international bodies) comprising of Diving experts/ specialists from PN/ Retd diving personnel/ Civil diving firms for formulating / Regulating Diving Policy/ Regulations in Pakistan is felt the need of the hour to regularize the diving activities.

5. Until formulation of PDRA, WSC must have international certifications, comply international best practices and regulations mentioned in this document to conduct their diving activities. PMSA may continue to monitor all kind of diving activities being conducted by WSCs in the Maritime Zones of Pakistan to ensure safety of life.

6. Proposed mandate of the PDRA is as under:

a. Articulate standard courses and qualifications for different diving activities from a beginner to instructor level in all categories. Course requirements will specify knowledge/skills an individual should possess before commencing certification and skills/knowledge he/she should possess after certification.b. Issue license to individuals who have been certified according to PDRA Diving categories and levels.c. Formulate medical board which will conduct medical fitness tests for all dive professionals according to their respective diving category and levels respectively.d. Set up an examination and testing system through which individuals are granted instructor/supervisor licenses respective to the diving category. Examination and testing to be conducted by a team of independent PDRA diving professionals and medical experts.e. Act as license/NOC issuing authority to WSCs in accordance to set standards in terms of equipment, human resource and compliance to PDRA regulations.f. Investigate and record any diving related incidents or misconduct on part of the diving service provider/WSC.g. Keep record of all diving equipment in possession of diving service providers and ensure they are serviced/maintained accordingly for quality assurance.h. Diving equipment belonging to diving service providers is to be inspected by PDRA on fixed timely basis.j. Give status of authorization to individuals and companies who are deemed qualified to service diving related equipment.k. Formulate procedure for inspection of WSCs.l. Devise mechanism for penalizing any negligence on part of diving service providers.m. Develop coordination amongst various stakeholders (national/international) for promotion and conduct of water sports in Pakistan.

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CHAPTER – SIX: License/NOC by Water Sports Centers

Section 1: Requirement

1) Since water sports are considered recreational as well as adventure activities, there is a dire need that only those operators should be allowed to undertake off shore activities who fulfill the safety and security requirements. In order to facilitate the operators, MoMA should act as focal point for issuing license/NOC for their operations. License/NOC when issued will be valid for a period of 2 years. In order to obtain license/NOC, the operators should submit following documents on prescribed form to the focal point.

a. Company Profileb. Copy of NTN/SECP registration of business/companyc. Copy of Boat registration certificate issued by MMDd. Copy of licenses of boat drivers/crew issued by MMDe. Copy of Professional diving certification for instructors and supervisors from relevant, acclaimed national or international authority.f. Copies of CNIC of all staff employed by water sports operator.g. Copy of yearly boat inspection certificate from MMD.h. Copy of latest inspection/maintenance certificates of water sports/diving equipment.j. Manifest of first aid/emergency equipment available on boats.k. Copy of membership/permission from the authority who has permitted use of its

jetty by water sports operator.l. Copy of registration from provincial tourism department/ministry.

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Section 2: Action required by operators before undertaking off shore activities

1) All water sports business and operators having NOC from the relevant regulator are required to submit following documents before undertaking any water sports activity at sea (See Annex D):

a. Tour operator/ Dive center information (including address, contact number, registration number)b. A manifest of passengers and crew consisting of their names and CNIC number.c. Name and registration number of boat being used to undertake the tripd. Indicate the departure jettye. Indicate expected time of departure and arrival at jettyf. Indicate general area of the tripg. Emergency Exit Plan

The above information be forwarded to PMSA Headquarter before undertaking the trip on the on the following email/mailing address.

HQs Pakistan Maritime Security AgencyPlot No 34-A, Dockyard Road, Karachi.

Operations Room / MRCCTel:

+92-21-99214624+92-21-48508851+92-21-48508912

Fax:+92-21-99214625

Email:hqpmsa@pmsa.gov.pk

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ANNEX AREGISTRATION PROCEDURE OF HARBOUR CRAFTSFROM MERCANTILE MARINE DEPARTMENT (MMD)

NEW CRATS

Application for registration photocopy of CNIC along with original for seenIf registered in name of Company then required Company Memorandum of Association & ArticleDeclaration of Ownership of Rs.20/+ stamp paper duly notarized (owner’s photograph must be affixed)

Builder Certificate (original) along with approved drawing copy. Invoice (original) Custom Bill of entry duly cleared along with original

OLD CRAFTS

Previous documents photo copies.Bill of sale duly executed (original)Deletion Certificate from last Flag State (original), may be provided in place of items 4 and 5 above

ACTION

Verification of address Arrange Seaworthiness/measurement survey and deposit of fee Payment of registration fees then New Number will be issued Number report given by the Tap Holder then new registration certificate will be issued within one

week

TRANSFER PROCEDURE

Transfer of ownership form for transferring the CRAFT (photographs of seller and buyer to be affixed in the form) both parties to sign

Application from seller for measurement inspection Photo copies of CNIC of seller and purchaser Photocopy of sale agreement on stamp paper MMD valid survey certificate Original Registration Certificate

ACTION

Address verification of purchaser Payment of transferring fee Arrange measurement inspection

After completion of above requirements seller and purchaser should appear with original CNIC before registrar to confirm the sale proceed & Registration Certificate will be issued within one week.

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ANNEX B

Potential Sites for water sports and recreational activities in Pakistan

Following potential sites have been identified for conduct of Water Sports activities in Pakistan:

Locations Water Sports Activities

Remarks

Seaview Beach Karachi Jet skis, water tubing, Kayaking, boating. Sailing, para-sailing

Sea view is an ideal places for short day trips for everyone due to easy accessibility.

Oyster Rocks Island opp. New China Jetty

Jet skis, water tubing, Kayaking, boating, diving, snorkeling

The area is ideal for water sports activities due to calm waters all year round

Hawksbay/ Sandspit Beach, Karachi

Jet skis, water tubing, Kayaking, boating. Sailing, para-sailing, surfing, Green Turtle Watching

These sites are popular among the general public presenting an ideal market for water sports.

Manora Island Beach Jet skis, water tubing, Kayaking, boating. Sailing, para-sailing

Famous Picnic Spot with Sandy Beach and marine attractions such as Lighthouse, breakwater, seafood eateries etc.

Beach near Mubarak village and Bhit Korri

Surfing, Jet skis, water tubing, Kayaking, boating. Sailing, para-sailing.

Picnic spot with sandy beach and access point for offshore diving activities.

Manjhaar and Sunhera Beach, opposite HubPower Plant

Gateway Resort on Shore, Picnic Spot and water sport activities

The beach is naturally sheltered from waves and tides

Churna Island Scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing, jet skiing

This is the premiere spot for scuba diving with over 20 dive sites ranging from depths between 6 meters and 29 meters with varying topography and marine life.

Gaddani, Lasbela district, Balochistan

Surfing, Jet skis, water tubing, snorkeling.

Hub of ship breaking industry and access point for diving activities for Kiao Island

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Kund Malir Beach, District Lasbela, Balochistan.

Parasailing, surfing, jet skis, water tubing, boating.

Sandy beach equally attractive for tourist and water sports enthusiasts.

Makran Coast, Baluchistan Parasailing, Surfing, Sailing, speed Boating, jet skiing, water tubing, kayaking etc.

Numerous sites for water sports along the Makran coastal belt

Gwadar, Baluchistan Hot Air Balloon, Parasailing, boating, kayaking, jet skiing, water tubing, sailing.

With upcoming CPEC, water sports activities have huge potential.

Astola Island Scuba diving, Snorkeling

Astola being a marine protected area, water sports activities can only conducted after permission from relevant authority

Jiwani Boating, fishing. A historical site that includes Historical airport used in World War II and Victoria Hut with scenic view point

Indus River estuary near Keti Dolphin watching,Backwater Tourism,

Eco-Tourism with boat based educational tours for

Bandar, Sindh. houseboats, cruise activities, kayaking

Awareness on Mangroves, marine pollution and other aspects of the Ocean. Kayaking is accessible throughout the year in the Korangi Creek Channel as well as towards Port Qasim channels.

There are many other locations which can be explored from time to time. Above mentioned locations are accessible for tourists. However, a lot of development needs to be done in order to attract foreign tourists in terms of safety and comfort

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ANNEX C

Disclaimer Form (Indemnity and Medical disclaimer)(sample)

I, wish to participate in the Service organized by (name of water sports company) on date .

I hereby acknowledge that I am eighteen years old or older.

I agree that I will carry out the activity in accordance with the specific safety instructions that I have received before undertaking said activity. I agree to wear any safety equipment provided to me by

(name of water sports company) in accordance with the safety instructions imparted to me.

I understand that the Service requires a moderate level of fitness and is physically testing. I accept that there is a risk of injury during such activities.

I hereby acknowledge that I am responsible for my own safety (and the safety of my possessions) when carrying out the activity. I understand that there may be instances during the activity where I will be without direct supervision following the safety instructions. I therefore agree at all times to ensure that I wear all protective equipment provided to me and to ensure that all safety instructions are carried out.

In the unlikely event of an accident, or loss or damage to my personal effects, I acknowledge that (name of water sports company) will not be liable for any direct or indirect loss, damage or injury

arising from or in connection with the service they have provided (except in instances of death or personal injury caused by the Company’s negligence) and I waive all and any claims against (name of water sports company) in this respect.

I confirm that I do not know of any medical condition that I suffer from which might may affect making it more likely that I be involved in an incident which could result in injury to myself or others.

I acknowledge that I have been provided with the necessary safety instructions in relation to the sport which will be conducted.

I acknowledge and confirm that I have read and understood the Terms, Conditions and Disclaimer provided by (name of water sports company) and I hereby accept the terms.

Signature:

Date/Month/Year:

C.N.I.C / PASSPORT # (In case of Foreign National)

Address:

E-mail address:

Contact # In case of Emergency:

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Form for Understanding of Safe Diving Practices (sample)

STANDARD SAFE DIVING PRACTICES: STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING

Please read carefully before signing.

This is a statement in which you are informed of the established safe diving practices scuba diving. Your signature on this statement is required as proof that you are aware of these safe diving practices. Read and discuss the statement prior to signing it.

I, , understand that as a diver I should:

1. Maintain good mental and physical fitness for diving.

2. Be familiar with my dive sites or go to dive sites with fellow divers who are familiar with the site. If diving conditions are worse than those in which previously experienced either postpone the dive or select an alternate site with better conditions.

3. Use complete, well-maintained, reliable equipment and familiarize myself with it, ensure it is correct in fitting and function prior to each dive. Have a buoyancy control device, low-pressure buoyancy control inflation system, submersible pressure gauge and alternate air source and dive planning/monitoring device (dive computer, RDP/dive tables—whichever you are trained to use) when scuba diving. Deny use of my equipment to uncertified divers.

4. Listen carefully to dive briefings and directions and adhere by instructions of those supervising my diving activities.

5. Not dive alone, always dive with in pairs.

6. Be proficient in dive planning (dive computer or dive table use). Avoid decompression dives. Take equipment with me on dive which would help to monitor depth and time underwater. Determine maximum depth according to my level of experience. Ascend at a rate of not more than 18 meters per minute. Make safety stops while ascending as a precaution.

7. Maintain proper buoyancy. Adjust weighting at the surface for neutral buoyancy with no air in my buoyancy control device. Maintain neutral buoyancy while underwater. Establish buoyancy when in distress while diving. Carry at all times one signaling device to be used on the surface.

8. Breathe according to the instruction conveyed to me regarding breathing compressed air. Avoid overexertion while in and underwater and dive within my limitations.

9. Know and obey local laws and regulations regarding diving.

I have read the above statements and have had any questions answered to my satisfaction. I understand the importance and purposes of these established practices. I recognize they are for my own safety and well-being, and that failure to adhere to them can place me in jeopardy when diving.

Signature:

Date/Month/Year:

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Annex D

Passenger/Crew Manifest (sample)

Passenger List

Sr #

Name CNIC # /Passport # & Nationality (In case of Foreign National)

Contact # Address Contact # (In case of Emergency)

Staff/Crew List

Sr # Name Designation &Qualification

CNIC # Contact # Address

Contact # (In case of Emergency)

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PROFORMA

INFORMATION FORM BEFORE UNDERTAKING SEA TRIP

1. Name of Company:

2. Address:

3. Contact Number (Phone/Cell):

4. Registration Number (NTN/SECP):

5. Name and Registration Number of Boat:

6. Departure Jetty:

7. Expected Time ofArrival:

Departure:

8. Area of Trip:

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Undertaking by Operator before Undertaking Trip

We (Water sports centers);

1) Dully confirmed that all documents presented to *relevant authority are accurate and can be checked with the relevant authorities. If found fake or forged, *relevant authority has full authority to stop us for venturing out in the sea.

2) Will undertake all precautionary measures to protect marine environment and will not cause any damage in the Marine Protected Areas.

3) Will follow the Stand Operating Procedures laid out by *relevant authority for any sort of marine/coastal tourism, and failure to do so *relevant authority will have full authority to stop us for venturing out in the sea by giving 7 days’ notice time.

Sign & Stamped Sign & Stamped

Water Sports Center *relevant authority