Rules on maritime observation, forecasting issued

The regulation on the management of maritime observation and forecasting was authorized to be published on Wednesday, according to a State Council decree recently signed by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

The regulation aims at streamlining the nation's maritime observation and forecasting activities, a move to prevent and mitigate marine disasters.

The regulation provides that the national oceanic authority should compile plans for building a maritime observation network, including siting for observation stations, plans on infrastructure construction and maintenance measures.

The network should give special attention to coastal cities, densely-populated areas, industrial parks and areas prone to marine disasters, according to the regulation.

Furthermore, international and foreign organizations should abide by Chinese laws and regulations when conducting maritime observations within Chinese territory.

The regulation also specifies organizations responsible for the forecasting of oceanic disasters and public disclosure of relevant information, as well as penalties for dereliction in maritime forecasting.

The regulation will come into effect on June 1, 2012.