Indigenous Pollution Control Vessel Launched for Indian Coast Guard
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) recently took step in enhancing its maritime environmental response capabilities with the launch of ‘Samudra Prachet’. This is the second and final Pollution Control Vessel (PCV) built indigenously by Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL). The vessel was launched on 23 July 2025 in Vasco, Goa, marking a milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in defence production and maritime security.
Indigenous Shipbuilding and National Capability
‘Samudra Prachet’ features 72% indigenous content, reflecting a strong emphasis on domestic manufacturing. This project has boosted national capability, generated employment, and enhanced skills by involving local industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The vessel is part of India’s broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, aiming to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers in critical defence sectors.
Technical Specifications and Design
The PCV measures 114.5 metres in length and 16.5 metres in breadth with a displacement of 4,170 tonnes. It has a crew capacity of 14 officers and 115 sailors. The ship is equipped with two side-sweeping arms that can collect oil spills while the vessel is underway. It also features a modern radar system designed to detect oil slicks in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Advanced Pollution Control Capabilities
The vessel is engineered to handle oil spill recovery across the full viscosity spectrum. It can pump in contaminated water, analyse and separate pollutants, and store recovered oil in dedicated onboard tanks. This allows for a swift and effective response to maritime environmental emergencies, mitigating the impact of oil spills on marine ecosystems.
Strategic Importance for Maritime Security
The launch ceremony was attended by senior officials from the Ministry of Defence, ICG, and GSL. Director General of ICG, Paramesh Sivamani, brought into light the critical role of PCVs in safeguarding the maritime domain. He praised the efforts of GSL and the industry in fulfilling the ICG’s shipbuilding requirements indigenously, reinforcing India’s strategic autonomy in maritime security.
Contribution to Environmental Preparedness
Chairman and Managing Director of GSL, Brajesh Kumar Upadhyay, emphasised the importance of this platform in advancing India’s maritime environmental preparedness. The vessel enhances the ICG’s ability to respond quickly to oil spills, protecting marine biodiversity and coastal economies. This aligns with India’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental protection in its maritime zones.
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