Section 34(7) in The Merchant Shipping (Prevention of Pollution by Oil from Ships) Rules, 2010
(7)Whenever visible traces of oil are observed on or below the surface of the water in the immediate vicinity of a ship or its wake, the Central Government, to the extent reasonable, shall promptly investigate the facts bearing on the issue of whether there has been a violation of the provisions of this rule:Provided that such investigation shall include, in particular, the wind and sea conditions, the track and speed of the ship, other possible sources of visible traces in the vicinity and relevant oil discharge records.
