Govt approves signing of pact between India, SACEP

The government today approved the signing of a pact between India and South Asian Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP) for cooperation on the response to oil and chemical pollution in the South Asian Seas Region.

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the pact which intends to promote cooperation between India and other maritime nations, comprising the South Asian seas region for protection and preservation of marine environment.

"Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will be the Competent National Authority and national operational contact point for implementation of Regional Oil Spill Contingency Plan under the MoU and shall respond to oil and chemical spills on behalf of Government of India.

"Further, ICG Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) will be the national emergency response centre for marine incidents," an official statement said.

In order to promote and support protection, management and enhancement of the environment in the South Asian region, the governments of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka established the SACEP in 1982 in Sri Lanka.

The SACEP jointly with the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) developed a Regional Oil Spill Contingency Plan to facilitate international cooperation and mutual assistance in preparing and responding to a major oil pollution incidents in the seas around Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.