The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) recently carried out the Regional Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (ReSAREX-26) off the coast of Mumbai, aimed at enhancing its preparedness for maritime emergencies. This exercise, executed by the ICG Regional Headquarters (West), involved complex scenarios designed to assess and improve the rapid response capabilities of various maritime assets.
During the exercise, conducted aboard the ICG ship Samrat, multiple operational evolutions were showcased. These included shipboard firefighting on an offshore supply vessel, aeronautical casualty evacuation utilizing a rescue bucket via the ALH Mk-III helicopter, and a man overboard rescue from a simulated distressed fishing boat, which involved specialized ICG aircrew divers from a Chetak helicopter.
- Advanced crisis response techniques — The exercise demonstrated swift survivor retrieval using state-of-the-art remotely operated lifebuoys, reflecting the ICG's commitment to maritime safety.
- Inter-agency collaboration — Coordination included the Maharashtra state administration, Maharashtra Maritime Board, Customs, Mumbai Port Authority, and other central coastal agencies.
- Leadership presence — Maharashtra's chief secretary, Rajesh Aggarwal, attended the event, emphasizing the importance of institutional preparedness in ensuring the safety of busy maritime corridors.
Deputy Inspector General Sudhakar Patil remarked on the significance of civil-armed forces collaboration, stating, "ICG remains ever ready to undertake search and rescue operations in coordination with other stakeholders and resource agencies. Over the last year, the ICG has saved hundreds of lives through coordinated efforts." This underscores the vital role of the ICG in maritime safety.
Aggarwal commended the precision exhibited during the exercises, highlighting that such drills are essential for maintaining safety standards in the bustling maritime zones off Mumbai. The exercise not only validated existing protocols but also fostered greater interoperability among the various agencies involved, ensuring a more robust response to potential maritime emergencies in the future.
