The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) recently welcomed the Samudra Pratap, its first Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) designed with 75% local resources. Delivered by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), this vessel is the first of two in a project aimed at addressing oil spills at sea.
Measuring 114.5 m in length and weighing 4,170 tonnes, the Samudra Pratap is now the largest ship in the ICG fleet. It boasts advanced features, including Dynamic Positioning capability that allows for precise control during operations. This capability is especially crucial for tackling marine pollution effectively.
One of its standout features is an oil fingerprinting machine, which helps identify the type of oil during a spill. It also comes with a gyro-stabilized standoff active chemical detector and various pollution control lab equipment. These tools will enhance the ICG’s ability to act quickly and accurately in response to environmental threats.
The vessel is equipped to recover pollutants from thick oil and separate oil from contaminated water, making it a vital asset for environmental protection. Additionally, it is armed with a 30mm naval gun and remote-controlled weapons, ensuring security during sensitive operations.
This initiative follows two significant pollution incidents earlier this year near Indian waters that raised alarms about maritime safety. In June, the MV Wan Hai, a Singapore-flagged container ship, caught fire carrying thousands of tonnes of fuel oil close to Kerala’s coast. Firefighters had to work carefully to extinguish the flames and prevent the ship from drifting closer to shore.
A month earlier, the MSC Elsa 3, a Liberian-flagged ship, sank near Alappuzha, carrying hazardous materials like furnace oil and diesel. Specialized teams were involved in the challenging task of removing these materials from the wreckage, highlighting the ongoing risks in maritime transport.
Experts point out that investments in pollution control like the Samudra Pratap are essential for safeguarding marine ecosystems. According to data from a recent environmental assessment, incidents of oil spills can severely damage local wildlife and ecosystems, often taking years to recover. The ICG’s proactive stance signals a commitment to a cleaner ocean.
As user feedback has shown on social media, many people are optimistic about these developments, emphasizing the importance of protecting India’s coastal waters. The introduction of the Samudra Pratap is not just a technological advancement; it’s a step forward in preserving our environment for future generations.
For more detailed information on pollution control measures, you can read from the [Press Information Bureau](https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2208089®=3&lang=1).
Source link
samudra pratap, goa shipyard limited, gsl, pollution control vessels, pcvs, maritime news, indian coast guard, indian coast guard pollution control vessel, icg pollution control vessel, defence news
