NATPOLREX-X Conducted to Strengthen Oil Spill Response

The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) successfully conducted the 10th National Level Pollution Response Exercise (NATPOLREX-X) along with the 27th National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOSDCP) and Preparedness Meeting off Chennai, Tamil Nadu, on 5-6th October, 2025, demonstrating India’s preparedness for marine pollution incidents.

The exercise saw participation from 40 foreign observers representing 32 countries and over 105 national delegates from central ministries, coastal states, ports, oil handling agencies, and maritime organizations, emphasizing strong inter-agency and international collaboration.
A first-ever shoreline clean-up drill was held at Chennai’s Marina Beach, led by the Greater Chennai Corporation, Tamil Nadu Pollution Control Board, State Disaster Management Authority, police, and other local agencies, simulating a large-scale oil spill scenario.
The ICG deployed a range of maritime and aerial assets, including Pollution Control Vessels (PCVs), Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), and Chetak and Dornier aircraft configured for pollution surveillance and containment operations.