Abstract:
With the development of world economy and trade, shipping industry has undergone great changes for the recent years. This trend will be maintained for the years to come. Classification societies have been playing an increasingly important role in the world maritime circle by setting up technical standards regarding hull and structure of ships, providing technical verification and other related technical services. For the recent 30 years, the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS), the only non-governmental technical organization holding consultative status with the International Maritime Organization (IMO), has developed into one of the most widely respected organizations. On the other hand, however, classification societies have been facing increasing public criticisms for its involvement in marine accidents and their limited liability.
This research study is to clarify the role of Bahria Classification Societies (BCS) in the maritime world, examine its legal status nationally and internationally. This study will compare the role and legislation of classification societies in other developed States and finally, the author makes proposals and recommendations for BCS in order to achieve and maintain higher standard of service thus improving its competitiveness in the world market and promoting safety and pollution prevention more substantially.
