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