Russian State Duma has approved in first reading the bill on improving the management of inland water transport, the effectiveness of state agencies charged with the enforcement of regulations on safe operation of vehicles, the State Duma press office said.
The draft law requires the establishment of river basin authorities, similar to sea basins port authorities. The river ports authorities will be responsible for ensuring that vessels leaving the port are consistent with safety requirements. The bill tightens the administrative responsibility for carrying out activities without a license.