Mumbai: The Regional Commander, briefed Hon’ble Governor on ICG efforts towards Maritime Safety especially efforts undertaken for fishermen safety along the coast of Maharashtra. He was briefed that ICG efforts led to saving of 28 lives of fishermen at sea in 11 missions including 03 medical evacuations off Maharastra and overall ICG has saved around 12000 lives in Indian waters.
In the realm of Coastal Security, the Hon’ble Governor was apprised about various initiatives undertaken including regular Coastal Security Exercises Sagar Kavach and Sajag. ICG is conducting Joint Coastal Patrol with Marine Police and around 24 such missions have been undertaken which have assisted the Marine Police officials in gaining sea legs.
ICG has conducted over 15 Community Interaction Programmes / awareness drives in the year 2024 which have been successful in spreading awareness and confidence building amongst fishermen.
The Regional Commander briefed the Hon’ble Governor on multifarious ICG operations, particularly off Maharashtra coast. The Hon’ble Governor was also apprised of the recent ICG efforts to dismantle the burgeoning diesel smuggling cartels operating off Maharashtra coast.
Since 2023, over Rupees one crore worth of diesel and unaccounted cash has been seized with apprehension of around 09 fishing boats in the year 2024. The efficacy of ICG in ensuring coastal security as well as role of Maritime Search and Coordination Centre (MRCC), including the Charter of Duties, were also discussed during the meeting.
The Hon’ble Governor was also briefed on various welfare activities as undertaken by Coast Guard Wives Welfare Association (CGWWA) West towards the families and wards of Coast Guard personnel to keep their josh and morale at the highest. The Flag Officer reassured ICG’s commitments towards protecting and preserving the national maritime interest in the EEZ of India.
The Flag Officer has, prior to present appointment, commanded ICG Regional Headquarters, Andaman & Nicobar and ICG District Headquarter, Maharashtra.
