ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Maritime Security Agency’s international exercise in oil spill response kicked off on Tuesday in the southern port city of Karachi with participation from multiple countries such as Saudi Arabia and China, the state-run Radio Pakistan broadcaster reported.
The Barracuda exercise is a marine pollution response exercise, conducted biennially by the PMSA since 2007, that focuses on refining response mechanisms and enhancing coordination among stakeholders. The exercise serves as a critical platform to prepare for and address potential oil spills and other marine pollution incidents.
The 12th edition of Barracuda is aimed at sharing Pakistan’s expertise in mitigating negative effects of oil spills and pollution at sea, according to Radio Pakistan. This year’s exercise, which will run from January 2-4, will involve Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, China, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania, and representatives from oil-importing companies in Pakistan.
The exercise commenced at the PMSA headquarters with an impressive flag hoisting ceremony, followed by laying of a floral wreath on the martyrs’ monument. Foreign observers and delegations from relevant stake-holders attended the opening ceremony, with Pakistan’s Caretaker Climate Change Minister Irfan Aslam gracing the occasion as the chief guest.
“The exercise will continue to crystallize our preparedness for maritime disasters management,” Aslam said in his address. “Pakistan has always been and will continue to be an ardent advocate of safe and secure seas for the wellbeing of the region and the world.”
During his welcome address, PMSA Director General (DG) Rear Admiral Imtiaz Ali apprised the audience about Pakistan’s endeavors to curb pollution at sea and reiterated the PMSA’s resolve to fight marine pollution, according to the PMSA.
He highlighted the role of PMSA in implementing the laws in Pakistan’s territorial waters and thanked foreign participants and national maritime stakeholders for their support.
“BARRACUDA-XII will unfold as an immersive experience in the North Arabian Sea providing a platform for participating countries to engage in scenario-based simulations and comprehensive drills,” the PMSA said in a statement.
“The three-day exercise which includes harbor and sea phase will facilitate knowledge exchange, enhance interoperability and solidify coordination among diverse maritime entities, thereby fortifying our global resilience against marine pollution incidents.”
