Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 31 December 2024
In a bid to enhance preparedness and coordination for managing marine pollution, the Revenue Officials of South Andaman underwent specialised training during a one-day Regional Level Pollution Response Exercise organised by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). The exercise, held near the Science Centre and Jetty area, focused on the vital role that Revenue officials play in responding to marine pollution incidents.
The event combined both practical demonstrations and theoretical training, providing a comprehensive learning experience for participants. A key feature of the exercise was a hands-on training session aboard the Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Vijit, where officials were equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to handle oil spills and mitigate their environmental impact effectively.
The exercise also showcased the deployment of specialised pollution response equipment, offering officials valuable exposure to real-time emergency management techniques. Simulated scenarios provided an opportunity for participants to engage with pollution control logistics, underscoring the importance of swift, coordinated action to minimise environmental damage during such incidents.
The day concluded with a detailed briefing on oil spill prevention and preparedness. Experts shared advanced techniques and demonstrated state-of-the-art equipment for oil spill containment and recovery. The session emphasised the critical need for efficient response strategies in marine pollution emergencies.
This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the District Administration, South Andaman, and the Indian Coast Guard, highlights a shared commitment to safeguarding the region’s marine environment. For the Revenue officials, the exercise proved to be a pivotal learning experience, reinforcing their role as first responders and enhancing their readiness for future environmental emergencies.
The initiative not only improves operational preparedness but also strengthens inter-agency collaboration and fosters a sense of collective responsibility to protect the ecological integrity of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ marine ecosystems. Through such efforts, the islands remain better equipped to face environmental challenges effectively.