Chennai, apr 25 (UNI) The ​Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Regional Headquarters (East)

conducted a regional-level Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-25) off the Karaikal

coaston Thursday.

Conducted by ICGS Karraikal, the exercise simulated a major maritime distress scenario

involving the ferry vessel HSC Shivgangai, which was transiting from Nagapattinam to Sri

Lanka.

The primary objective was to validate the efficiency of the regional Search and Rescue (SAR)

mechanism and enhance inter-agency coordination among maritime stakeholders, showcasing

a united and efficient response to maritime emergencies, defence sources said.

The simulated scenario involved a fire breaking out onboard Shivgangai, resulting in multiple

casualties and necessitating immediate mass rescue operations.

The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) was promptly activated, and ICG assets

were rapidly deployed. These included ICGS Shaurya, ICGS Ameya, ICGS Annie Besant,

ICGS Rani Avantibai, interceptor boats, a Dornier aircraft, and a Chetak helicopter, along

with support from local authorities.

Key agencies including the Indian Navy, District Administrations of Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam

and Karaikal, Fire and Rescue Services, Customs, Port Authorities, and medical teams from local

hospitals actively participated in the exercise.

The joint efforts demonstrated a seamless and professional multi-agency response.

Live demonstrations of firefighting, medical evacuation, and triage simulations were executed with

high precision during the exercise.



Deputy Inspector General S.S. Dasila, Commander of Coast Guard District Headquarters No.13,

emphasized the critical importance of inter-agency coordination and the ICG's pivotal role in saving

lives at sea.

He said such exercises are essential for maintaining readiness and enhancing capabilities to

safeguard life and property in maritime zones.

The exercise concluded with a comprehensive debrief, highlighting lessons learned and best

practices, thereby reaffirming ICG's unwavering commitment to maritime safety and swift response

to distress situations at sea.

The event was graced by Soma Shekhar Appa Rao, District Collector of Karaikal, and T Aakash,

District Collector of Nagapattinam, along with other dignitaries from the civil administration and

stakeholder agencies.

UNI GV 1845