In a demonstration of international cooperation and knowledge exchange in maritime affairs, a high-level delegation from the World Maritime University (WMU) in Sweden, accompanied by representatives from the Indian Maritime Administration, embarked on a visit to various facilities of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on March 18, 2024.
The delegation’s itinerary included visits to the India Coast Guard Regional Headquarters (West), the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai, and the Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) ICGS Samudra Prahari.
The visit provided an invaluable opportunity for the delegates to gain insights into the operational capabilities, infrastructure, and best practices of the Indian Coast Guard, while also fostering collaboration and dialogue on matters of mutual interest in the maritime domain.
At the India Coast Guard Regional Headquarters (West), the delegation received a comprehensive briefing on the Coast Guard’s operational responsibilities, jurisdictional areas, and ongoing initiatives to enhance maritime safety and security along India’s western coast.
They were apprised of the Coast Guard’s multi-faceted role in maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, environmental protection, and humanitarian assistance.
Subsequently, the delegation proceeded to the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Mumbai, where they were briefed on the functions and capabilities of the MRCC in coordinating search and rescue operations across India’s vast maritime domain.
The MRCC plays a pivotal role in coordinating responses to distress incidents at sea, ensuring swift and effective rescue operations to save lives and safeguard maritime interests.
The highlight of the delegation’s visit was a tour of the Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) ICGS Samudra Prahari, a state-of-the-art vessel equipped with advanced pollution response equipment and capabilities.
The delegates had the opportunity to witness firsthand the Coast Guard’s efforts in combating marine pollution and environmental degradation, underscoring its commitment to preserving the marine ecosystem and ensuring sustainable maritime development.
The interaction between the delegation from the World Maritime University, representatives from the Indian Maritime Administration, and the Indian Coast Guard facilitated meaningful exchanges on a wide range of maritime-related topics, including maritime governance, safety and security, environmental protection, and capacity building.
The visit also served to strengthen the bonds of cooperation and collaboration between the Indian Coast Guard and the international maritime community, reaffirming India’s commitment to promoting a rules-based maritime order, fostering regional maritime security, and enhancing global maritime governance.
As the delegation concluded their visit, they expressed their appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to them by the Indian Coast Guard and conveyed their admiration for the organization’s professionalism, dedication, and commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests.
The visit of the delegation from the World Maritime University and the Indian Maritime Administration to the Indian Coast Guard facilities exemplifies the importance of international cooperation and knowledge sharing in addressing common maritime challenges and advancing shared objectives in the global maritime domain.
Through such exchanges, nations can leverage their collective expertise and resources to promote safety, security, and sustainability in the world’s oceans and seas.
