Which one of the following statements best describes the 'Polar Code'?

(a) It is the international code of safety for ships operating in polar waters.

(b) It is the agreement of the countries around the North Pole regarding the demarcation of their territories in the polar region.

(c) It is a set of norms to be followed by the countries whose scientists undertake research studies in the North Pole and South Pole.

(d) It is a trade and security agreement of the member countries of the Arctic Council.

APEDIA

UPSC Prelims

2022 • 05 Jun, 2022 • Paper-1

Which one of the following statements best describes the 'Polar Code'?

Correct Answer

(a) It is the international code of safety for ships operating in polar waters.

Maritime Regulatory Framework: The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (universally and commonly referred to as the Polar Code) is a highly c......

💡 Analysis & Explanation

Maritime Regulatory Framework ▼

The International Code for Ships Operating in Polar Waters (universally and commonly referred to as the Polar Code) is a highly critical, legally binding international regulatory framework adopted directly by the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Core Objective ▼

The code is comprehensively designed to explicitly address the extreme environmental risks and unique, severe operational hazards—such as heavy ice navigation, extreme cold temperatures, and extreme geographical remoteness—faced by commercial shipping vessels operating in the fragile Arctic and Antarctic marine environments. It rigidly enforces strict standards for ship design, construction, life-saving equipment, and severe anti-pollution environmental protection protocols.

Conclusion ▼

Therefore, Option A perfectly and completely encapsulates the official definition and maritime safety purpose of the IMO's Polar Code.

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Which one of the following statements best describes the 'Polar Code'?