Port Blair, July 14: Andaman and Nicobar Group of Islands are highly eco sensitive and the waters around islands are vulnerable to marine pollution. The Indian Coast Guard is the Central Coordinating Agency (CCA) for responding to oil spill that occurs in the Maritime Zones of India. There have been continuous efforts by the Indian Coast Guard to train all stake holders in oil spill response so that concerted efforts are made in case of any eventuality resulting in accidental spillage of oil. Accordingly, the Indian Coast Guard has conducted structured courses as designed by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) for the personnel of Oil Handling Agencies, Resource Agencies, Stake Holders and Indian Coast Guard.
Indian Coast Guard conducted an Oil Pollution Preparedness Response and Co-operation Convention Level-I Course for the first responders from 08-12 Jul 19 at Port Blair. The course was designed to bring awareness on preparedness and response techniques related to marine Oil Pollution as a first respondent. Apart from 33 Officers and personnel of the Indian Coast Guard, 05 personnel from various stakeholders viz Dept. of forest and Marine police participated in the course. During the course, participants were also given extensive practical training in handling of oil spill response equipment. An exposure was also provided for Health and Safety precautions to be exercised during such operations. Wild life is also prone to high casualties during any oil spill and the methods required for recovery and rehabilitation of wild life were also imparted during training by expert from department of Environment & Forest. Application of Oil Spill Dispersant (OSD) is an important method for responding to oil spill. The participants visited Coast Guard Air Enclave at Port Blair and were briefed about the aerial application of OSD by CG aircraft.
The closing ceremony was graced by Mr. Tarun Coomar, IFS, PCCF Port Blair as Chief Guest alongwith DIG VK Parmar, CSO(Tech) Regional Headquarters (A & N), Mr. Jitin Narwal, Superintendent of police and participants from other agencies
Mr. Coomar also expressed the pollution occurring from plastic waste and its impact on marine life and necessity for cleanliness of sea. He also urged that it our responsibility to fight against marine pollution and his organization will extend all possible help with ICG for protection of eco system of this pristine island. The chief guest also handed over certificates and mementos to participants during the event.