Indian coast guard conducts SAR workshop and sea exercise in Paradip

A comprehensive Search and Rescue (SAR) Workshop and Sea Exercise was conducted by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Regional Headquarters (North East) in Paradip, with active participation being witnessed from major local SAR stakeholders and resource agencies. The exercise was aimed at curbing smuggling, preventing illegal intrusion, and enhancing preparedness for coastal emergencies, while ensuring that an effective and coordinated emergency response was maintained under the supervision of the Coast Guard Commander.

A demonstration simulating an aircraft accident involving ditching into the sea was carried out, and a mass evacuation exercise was undertaken with the participation of State Search and Rescue teams. Improved coordination between state agencies and the Coast Guard during emergency situations was being focused upon throughout the drill.

A special emphasis was placed on the significance of such exercises for national security, as the strengthening of surveillance, response capability, and inter-agency coordination is regarded as essential for preventing illegal maritime intrusions. The need for such preparedness was underscored by the fact that lapses in coastal monitoring had been exploited during incidents such as the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, and it was stressed that enhanced vigilance and readiness must be ensured to avert similar threats in the future.

It was stated by IG (North East) Iqbal Singh Chauhan that annual Search and Rescue and Sea Exercises are conducted to validate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and to enhance inter-agency coordination. It was further mentioned that aircraft are involved during these exercises, including the dropping of life rafts.

It was added by him that the day’s simulation was designed to depict a mass evacuation scenario following an aircraft accident at sea, and that involvement was ensured from aircraft, the Marine Police, and Port authorities so that coordination during rescue operations could be strengthened.

It was further stated by Chauhan that a request had been made to the Government of Odisha for land allocation to enable the upgradation of ports such as Gopalpur. It was noted that Paradip is currently the only major harbour in the region, and that the Coast Guard’s presence is intended to be expanded to other emerging harbours in the state.

It was highlighted that although a smaller vessel is presently based in Gopalpur, efforts are planned to strengthen maritime infrastructure in Odisha and West Bengal. It was emphasised that adequate infrastructure is required for effective maritime operations, and that land and essential amenities will be requested for all upcoming ports so that necessary facilities can be developed.

It was also mentioned that discussions are underway for the establishment of UAV or drone stations at Dhamra, and it was indicated that the Coast Guard’s presence in Odisha is expected to be significantly increased over the next four to five years.