SRI LANKA COAST GUARD CONDUCTED OIL SPILL RESPONSE AND MANAGEMENT EXERCISE AT GALLE HARBOUR

In a proactive and strategic move to enhance maritime safety and preparedness, the Sri Lanka Coast Guard (SLCG) conducted oil spill management classes and rehearsed Medium Level Oil Spill Response and Management Exercise for Sri Lanka Navy and Port authority personnel at Galle harbour from 23-27 October 2023.

Sri Lanka Coast Guard acts as a first responder to oil and chemical spill response and management in the country. Therefore, this exercise aimed to bolster the capabilities of both the Sri Lanka Port Authority and the Sri Lanka Navy personnel in managing and responding to potential oil spills, thereby safeguarding the pristine coastal environment and harbor area. Furthermore, the exercise allowed them to plan, estimate, and decide the best mitigation action such as how to prevent the further spreading of oil by laying up booms, oil spill monitoring using drones, and collection of spilled oil by using skimmers.

This event was spearheaded by Commander Southern Naval Area Rear Admiral WDCU Kumarasinghe, the Deputy Director General SLCG Commodore LN Hewavitharana and the Deputy Harbour Master Galle harbour Mr. Sanjeewa Wimalasiri. The 19 Navy personnel and 07 Port Authority personnel attended the three-day workshop in Galle harbour. In addition, Officers from the Sri Lanka Navy, and representatives from the Marine Environmental Protection Authority and Sri Lanka Port Authority participated for the event.