- RPREX-25 showcases inter-agency synergy, advanced assets, and commitment to marine environmental protection
NE ENVIRONMENT BUREAU
SURAT, SEPT 23
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) District Headquarters No. 1, Porbandar (South Gujarat, Daman & Diu), under the aegis of Coast Guard Region (North West), Gandhinagar, successfully conducted a Regional Level Pollution Response Exercise (RPREX-25) at Hazira Port, Surat on Monday and Tuesday-September 22–23, 2025.
The two-day exercise, built around realistic mock pollution scenarios, deployed ICG’s surface and air assets to tackle simulated oil spill contingencies. The drills showcased comprehensive pollution response capabilities, including the effective use of booms, skimmers, and aerial surveillance to contain and mitigate oil spill impacts.
Strengthening inter-agency coordination
The exercise witnessed participation from key stakeholders such as Adani Ports Ltd, Cairn Oil & Gas, Shell Energy India, Gujarat Maritime Board, CMLRE, and CSIR-NIO. Strategic planning sessions combined with live demonstrations highlighted the importance of synergised response mechanisms to protect fragile coastal ecosystems and ensure quick mitigation of marine pollution incidents.
Safeguarding the marine environment
As the designated Central Coordinating Authority for oil spill response under the National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP), the Indian Coast Guard reaffirmed its leadership role in marine environmental protection.
Regular conduct of such exercises ensures:
- Continuous upgradation of preparedness at the national and regional levels
- Validation of contingency plans with industry stakeholders
- Stronger coastal community resilience against environmental hazards
