On January 5, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will officially launch the Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) first Pollution Control Vessel (PCV), named Samudra Pratap, in Goa. This marks a significant step for the Coast Guard as they enhance their pollution response capabilities.
Samudra Pratap is a game changer for the ICG, built with over 60% local materials. The vessel is 114.5 meters long, weighs about 4,200 tons, and can reach speeds over 22 knots. Its advanced features will greatly improve maritime safety, fire-fighting, and pollution control operations.
This vessel is unique for various reasons. It’s the largest ship in the ICG fleet and it has cutting-edge technology onboard. For example, it comes equipped with state-of-the-art weapons, including a 30mm CRN-91 gun and two remote-controlled guns. Additionally, the ship has a sophisticated Integrated Bridge System that simplifies navigation and management.
One standout feature is its Dynamic Positioning capability, which allows the vessel to maintain a stable position even in challenging sea conditions. This is crucial for effective oil spill responses and pollution control. The vessel also includes advanced systems like an oil fingerprinting machine and a chemical detector for responding to spills.
The construction and induction of Samudra Pratap reflect India’s commitment to self-reliance through the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It shows how investing in domestic technology can enhance national capabilities.
According to recent reports, environmental and pollution control technologies are becoming vital, especially as global regulations push for cleaner oceans. The need for robust response mechanisms has never been clearer, with a marked increase in marine pollution incidents in recent decades. In 2019 alone, the International Maritime Organization reported that over 5 trillion pieces of plastic were found in the ocean. This underlines the importance of vessels like Samudra Pratap in protecting marine ecosystems.
As the ICG prepares to commission this vessel, it’s clear that it represents not just a technological advancement but also a commitment to protecting India’s oceans for future generations.
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Rajnath Singh, Central government, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Indian Coast Guard, Samudra Pratap, India news, national news, The Assam Tribune
