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Dated: 24.06.2026
Green Channel Launched for Rapid Customs Clearance of Pollution Response Equipment During Oil and HNS Spill Emergencies in India
India has taken a significant step to strengthen its environmental emergency response by establishing a Green Channel mechanism for the rapid Customs clearance of pollution response equipment and materials during oil and hazardous and noxious substances (HNS) spill emergencies. This initiative, led by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), aims to ensure swift deployment of critical resources to minimize environmental damage and protect public health.
Background and Rationale
India is committed to international cooperation in combating oil and chemical spills through forums such as BIMSTEC, SACEP, and IORA. In the event of a major spill that exceeds national response capacity, assistance from foreign governments, international organizations, or specialized service providers may be required. Timely import or export of pollution response equipment is crucial for:
- Minimizing environmental damage
- Protecting marine ecology
- Safeguarding public health
- Ensuring continuity of port operations
Key Features of the Green Channel Mechanism
1. Designated Locations for Expedited Clearance
The Green Channel will operate at strategic airports and seaports near Coast Guard District Headquarters, ensuring rapid access to affected areas:
| Coast Guard District HQ | Nearest Airport | Nearest Sea Port |
| DHQ-15 Okha, Gujarat | Jamnagar | Vadinar |
| DHQ-2 Mumbai, Maharashtra | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Int’l | Mumbai Port |
| DHQ-4 Kochi, Kerala | Cochin International | Cochin Port |
| DHQ-5 Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Chennai International | Chennai Port |
| DHQ-7 Paradip, Odisha | Biju Patnaik International, Bhubaneswar | Paradip Port |
| DHQ-14 Sri Vijay Puram, A&N | Sri Vijay Puram Airport | Sri Vijay Puram Port |
2. Appointment of Nodal Officers
Each Customs Zone will designate a senior officer (not below Additional Commissioner/Joint Commissioner) as the Nodal Officer. Their responsibilities include:
- Coordinating with Coast Guard, Port, and Airport Authorities
- Ensuring 24×7, hassle-free Customs clearance of pollution response consignments
- Acting as the single point of contact for Customs-related issues during emergencies
- Participating in inter-agency coordination exercises to improve response mechanisms
3. Operational Framework
- The Green Channel operates within the Customs Act, 1962 and all applicable laws.
- Statutory requirements remain unless specifically exempted.
- Nodal Officersβ contact details must be shared with the Board and Coast Guard Headquarters for seamless communication.
Implementation and Stakeholder Coordination
Customs formations are instructed to be sensitized about the importance of timely facilitation during pollution response operations. The mechanism emphasizes inter-agency collaboration and readiness to process emergency consignments on a priority basis.
Conclusion
The establishment of the Green Channel for Customs clearance marks a proactive approach by India to environmental emergencies at sea. By streamlining the import and export of pollution response equipment, the country enhances its capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to oil and HNS spills, safeguarding its marine environment and public health.
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Source: CBIC, Ministry of Finance, Govt. of India
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