The dependence of mankind on sea, its resources and environment has
increased manifold in todays globalized world. The corresponding upscale in maritime
activities is threatening marine environment. Mercantile traffic accounting for more than
90% of global trade carries along a perpetual danger of marine pollution through
oil/chemical spills during collusion/ groundings and port operations. Timely and effective
containment of such pollution requires regular rehearsals of response options besides
coordination among all stakeholders. Likewise, being Regional Coordinator of Search
and Rescue (SAR) setup of IMO, maritime services of Pakistan are required to
coordinate and respond to distress situations at sea where human life and property is at
risk.
In this context, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) is holding its twelfth
series of exercise BARRACUDA scheduled from 2-4 Jan 24. PMSA has consistently
taken the leading role both national and international level to safeguard maritime
security in the region and the exercise has become a signature event of PMSA since
- The pressing need for mitigating and managing Oil spill at sea became evident
following the catastrophic incident of MV TASMAN SPIRIT In Karachi back in 2003.
PMSA then vehemently proposed development of national oil spill contingency plan to
deal with all maritime disasters. Subsequently the national Marine Disaster Contingency
Plan (NMDCP) was approved by Govt in 2007 which mandated PN & PMSA to lead
national effort to fight the pollution, oil spillage and other maritime disasters at sea.
Resultantly exercise BARRACUDA was conceived by PMSA with the aim of generating
consensus and fostering a coordinated response among different stakeholders,
ensuring preparedness in the event of potential maritime disaster. The practical
manifestation of response mechanism was seen in case of oil spill by MT AL-JAWAZA
off Mubarik village and MV Hang Tong off Sea View wherein all stakeholders came
together to handle disaster of oil spill at sea.
This year, as we commemorate the 50th anniversary of the MARPOL convention
with the theme ‘at 50- Our Commitment Goes On’ reflecting IMO’s enduring dedication
for protection of marine environment through a robust regulatory framework. Embracing
these evolving paradigms, foster a collective responsibility among all stakeholders.
PMSA being a lead agency in maritime sector, remains resolute in its dedication to
ensure maritime safety and upholding environmental mandates. The conduct of Ex-
BARRACUDA under the ambit of PN underscores our commitment to prevent marine
pollution. Apart from meting national objectives on environmental control and anti-
pollution drives the exercise also provides a common platform to deliberate upon and
fine tune response mechanism for marine pollution incidents including SAR operations.
I extend my sincere gratitude to the friendly nations that have responded to our
invitation and envision this exercise as a learning opportunity. The collaborative nature
of the Ex BARRACUDA hold the potential to foster a valuable exchange of knowledge
and experiences among participants. As we join hands together for this exercise the
collective and collaborative efforts of all stakeholders will help to achieve the objective
of shared response against disaster management to marine pollution and SAR.
I look forward to welcome all national stakeholders and maximum international
participants/ observers at the inaugural session of exercise BARRACUDA-XII as I
remain hopeful of a rewarding and mutually beneficial exercise.
