ICG showcases oil spill response capabilities during NATPOLREX-X and NOSDCP meet

In a major demonstration of coastal preparedness, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) showcased its comprehensive oil spill response capabilities through a large-scale exercise involving a full spectrum of assets, including Pollution Control Vessels (PCVs), Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), and Chetak and Dornier aircraft configured for aerial surveillance and pollution response.

The exercise was part of the ICG’s 10th edition of the National Level Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-X) along with the 27th National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP) & Preparedness Meeting held recently, off the coast of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The highlight of the exercise was the first-ever shoreline clean-up drill conducted at Marina Beach, jointly carried out by the Greater Chennai Corporation, State Pollution Control Board, State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA), Police, and other Tamil Nadu government agencies, as part of the simulated incident.

Advertisement

This biennial flagship exercise is a cornerstone in strengthening India’s preparedness to combat marine oil spills in accordance with the National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP). A statement from the ICG spokesperson stated that 40 foreign observers from 32 countries and over 105 national delegates attended the exercise, along with stakeholders, including representatives from central ministries, coastal state governments, major ports, oil handling agencies, and maritime organizations.

The technical sessions of NATPOLREX-X featured presentations on topics of current relevance, including Nurdle Spills and their Environmental Impact, Case Studies on Hazardous and Noxious Substances (HNS), Post-Spill Monitoring & Environmental Impact Assessments, Shoreline Cleanup following MV MSC ELSA 3 Incident, ICG Coordination and Response during MV MSC ELSA 3 & MV Wan Mai 503 Incidents.

These sessions provided a knowledge-sharing platform for environmental scientists, policy makers, and operational experts to collaboratively discuss strategies for effective spill response and post-incident recovery.