Mangaluru: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Karnataka unit, conducted a two-day Regional Search and Rescue Exercise (ReSAREX–25) in the Arabian Sea off the Panambur coast on Wednesday and Thursday.
Objective of the exercise
The large-scale maritime exercise aimed to evaluate and enhance collective preparedness among all maritime search and rescue (SAR) stakeholders. The focus was on improving coordination and operational readiness to handle mass rescue operations at sea, involving multiple agencies and assets.
Officials said the exercise simulated real-time scenarios, including distress situations involving passenger vessels and offshore installations. It tested the efficiency of inter-agency communication, deployment of rescue assets, and coordination between maritime and aerial resources.
Participants and coordination efforts
The two-day ReSAREX–25 brought together personnel and assets from several key agencies, including the Indian Navy, New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), Department of Fisheries, Karnataka State Disaster Management Authority, and other stakeholders from coastal security and marine operations.
ICG ships, aircraft, and hovercraft were deployed to demonstrate rescue operations, medical evacuations, and fire-fighting techniques at sea. The involvement of civilian and private maritime operators helped test the effectiveness of a multi-agency response system.
A senior Coast Guard official said the exercise reaffirmed the importance of synergy between central and state agencies. “Timely coordination and swift decision-making are crucial in saving lives at sea. Exercises like ReSAREX–25 help us stay mission-ready,” the official added.
Enhancing maritime safety preparedness
The exercise is part of ICG’s ongoing efforts to strengthen India’s national search and rescue mechanism and ensure the safety of mariners and coastal communities. Karnataka’s strategic coastline and proximity to busy sea lanes make preparedness in the region vital for maritime safety.
ReSAREX–25 also aligns with the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) global standards for search and rescue operations, ensuring Indian agencies remain aligned with best practices and emerging technologies in maritime safety.
Conclusion
The successful conduct of ReSAREX–25 highlighted the operational efficiency and readiness of India’s maritime agencies to respond to emergencies. The Coast Guard reiterated its commitment to maintaining round-the-clock vigilance and coordination with all maritime stakeholders to ensure the safety of life and property at sea.