From May 21 to May 22, 2025, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Haldia Dock Complex (HDC) collaborated to conduct a Marine Pollution Response Seminar and Workshop in Haldia, West Bengal. This two-day event aimed to strengthen oil spill preparedness and enhance coordination among stakeholders along the West Bengal coast.
Objectives of the Workshop
Enhancing Oil Spill Readiness
The workshop focused on improving preparedness, coordination, and rapid response capabilities to manage oil spill incidents, which pose severe threats to marine ecosystems and coastal economies. By bringing together experts and stakeholders, the event aimed to build a robust framework for marine pollution response, aligning with India’s commitment to environmental sustainability.
Event Highlights
Seminar and Practical Demonstrations
Inaugurated by the ICG Commander (West Bengal), the seminar featured expert presentations by specialists from the ICG and HDC at the Coast Guard Pollution Response Cell. A key highlight was a practical demonstration of state-of-the-art pollution response equipment at the HDC, providing participants with hands-on insights into advanced oil spill containment and recovery systems.
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Seminar | Expert presentations at Coast Guard Pollution Response Cell |
| Practical Demonstration | Showcase of pollution response equipment at HDC |
Stakeholder Participation
Collaborative Efforts
The event saw active participation from key stakeholders in the maritime and petrochemical sectors, including:
- Kolkata Port Trust
- Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. Haldia Refinery
- Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd.
- Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd.
- Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd.
- Reliance Haldia Terminals
This collaboration underscores the importance of a multi-stakeholder approach in addressing marine pollution challenges.
Role of the Indian Coast Guard
Safeguarding Marine Environments
The Indian Coast Guard, under the Coast Guard Act, 1978, is responsible for protecting India’s maritime environment, including responding to oil spills and other pollution incidents. The ICG’s leadership in this workshop highlights its role in coordinating pollution response strategies and fostering partnerships with port authorities and industries.
Significance for Environmental Protection
Protecting Coastal Ecosystems
Oil spills can devastate marine biodiversity and disrupt fisheries and tourism, which are vital to West Bengal’s economy. The workshop’s focus on rapid response and advanced equipment aims to minimize the environmental and economic impacts of such incidents, supporting India’s commitments under the International Convention on Oil Pollution Preparedness, Response and Co-operation (OPRC), 1990.
Key Highlights
- Event Date: Held from May 21 to May 22, 2025, in Haldia, West Bengal.
- Purpose: Enhance oil spill preparedness and coordination along the West Bengal coast.
- Activities: Expert presentations and practical demonstrations of pollution response equipment.
- Stakeholders: Included Kolkata Port Trust, Indian Oil Corporation, and other petrochemical firms.
- Exam Relevance: Crucial for understanding environmental protection, maritime safety, and disaster management.