‘Samudra Pratap’ Joins Fleet: Indian Coast Guard Inducts First PCV To Boost Pollution Response
The ICG has inducted its first Pollution Control Vessel Samudra Pratap under the two-PCV project. Image courtesy: X.com/@goashipyardltd
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has inducted its first indigenously designed and built Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) ‘Samudra Pratap’, marking a key milestone in India’s maritime safety and environmental protection efforts. The vessel, designated Yard 1267, was inducted under the 02 PCV Project at Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
According to the ICG, the induction significantly strengthens India’s marine pollution response capabilities at a time of increasing maritime traffic and environmental risk in the Indian Ocean Region. Beyond pollution control, ‘Samudra Pratap’ will act as a multi-role platform.
It would support enforcement of marine pollution control regulations, maritime law enforcement, search and rescue (SAR) operations, and protection of India’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Built in India, for Indian waters
‘Samudra Pratap’ is the first PCV fully designed and built in India for the Coast Guard, with over 60% indigenous content. The vessel aligns closely with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives. The ship was formally handed over during an induction ceremony attended by senior Coast Guard officials and representatives from Goa Shipyard Limited.
The PCV is equipped with a suite of modern systems that enhance operational flexibility and survivability. Key features include 30mm CRN-91 naval gun, two 12.7mm stabilised remote-controlled guns with integrated fire control systems, indigenously developed Integrated Bridge System, integrated Platform Management System and Automated Power Management System, shaft generator for improved energy efficiency, sea boat and PR boat with dedicated davits, and a high-capacity external firefighting system for emergency response.
First-of-its-kind capabilities in the ICG fleet
In addition to being technologically advances, Indian Coast Guard’s newest addition ‘Samudra Pratap’ introduces several firsts for the Coast Guard’s pollution control vessels:
A retractable stern thruster for enhanced manoeuvrability,
Dynamic Positioning System (DP-I) for precise station-keeping during spill response, and
Flush-type side sweeping arms for efficient oil spill containment.
These capabilities allow the vessel to operate effectively in challenging sea conditions and congested maritime zones.
Advanced tools for pollution detection and containment
Moreover, the vessel is fitted with specialised pollution monitoring equipment, including an oil fingerprinting machine to identify pollution sources, and a gyro-stabilised standoff active chemical detector for detecting hazardous substances. Together, these systems significantly enhance the Coast Guard’s ability to detect, track and neutralise marine pollution incidents across vast operational areas.
With ‘Samudra Pratap’ entering service, the Indian Coast Guard has added a powerful asset to safeguard India’s coastline and maritime interests. The vessel is expected to play a crucial role in protecting the marine environment while ensuring maritime safety and law enforcement across the Indian Ocean Region.
