GSL launch Samudra Prachet Pollution Control Vessel of ICG

India took a significant step forward in maritime environmental protection with the commissioning of ‘Samudra Prachet’, the second and final of the two indigenous Pollution Control Vessels (PCVs), on July 23, 2025, in Goa. Developed with a remarkable 72% indigenous content, this state-of-the-art vessel reflects India’s growing self-reliance in marine pollution response capabilities and aligns with the nation’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat missions.

What is Samudra Prachet?

Samudra Prachet is a specially designed Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) built to strengthen India’s capacity to respond to marine oil spills and environmental emergencies. It is the second and final ship of its class, complementing its sister ship in safeguarding India’s coastal ecosystems.

Key Features & Capabilities of Samudra Prachet

The vessel is outfitted with a host of advanced technologies and pollution mitigation systems, including:

• Two Side-Sweeping Arms: Capable of collecting oil spills even while the vessel is in motion.

• Advanced Radar System: Used to detect oil slicks from a considerable distance, enabling a swift response.

• Comprehensive Pollution Response Equipment: Designed to handle oil across the full viscosity spectrum, from light spills to thick sludge.

• Integrated Onboard Systems:

  • Pumping in Contaminated Water

  • Analyzing and Separating Pollutants

  • Safe Storage of Recovered Oil

These features enable Samudra Prachet to perform both preventive and reactive environmental roles, setting a new benchmark in marine pollution control.

Indigenous Content: 72% Made in India

One of the major highlights of Samudra Prachet is its 72% indigenous content. From design to construction, a majority of components and systems are locally sourced, showcasing India’s engineering capability and commitment to maritime sovereignty. This also reduces dependency on foreign suppliers and improves operational readiness.

Strategic Importance of Pollution Control Vessels in India

India, with its over 7,500 km coastline, bustling ports, and increasing offshore activity, is prone to marine pollution incidents. Pollution Control Vessels like Samudra Prachet play a vital role in:

• Rapidly containing oil spills

• Protecting marine biodiversity

• Minimizing ecological and economic damage

• Ensuring compliance with international maritime environmental standards

The addition of Samudra Prachet to India’s pollution response fleet strengthens the Indian Coast Guard’s capabilities, especially in light of increasing maritime traffic and oil transportation in the Indian Ocean Region.

Conclusion

The commissioning of Samudra Prachet marks a significant achievement for India’s maritime and environmental security. As the second indigenous Pollution Control Vessel, it reflects India’s firm resolve to combat marine pollution and protect its rich marine ecosystem. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and high indigenous content, Samudra Prachet not only boosts national capabilities but also sets a precedent for future eco-friendly naval engineering initiatives.

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