In line with the directive from the Chief Secretary of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration to enhance departmental preparedness and discipline, the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) conducted a comprehensive mock drill simulating a boat capsize scenario at the Marine Dockyard.
The exercise centred on the simulated overturning of the vessel ML Ramakrishna and was conducted under the overall supervision of Incident Commander B. C. Sarkar, Deputy Director, DSS. The drill was designed to test emergency response protocols, coordination, and evacuation procedures, and saw active participation from the DSS disaster management team.
During the drill, 20 personnel acted as passengers and crew members, who were successfully evacuated to a designated safe area in the Passenger Hall. The scenario included a coordinated search and rescue operation, with responders boarding MV Mohit equipped with life jackets, a portable DG set, and pump sets to manage the simulated emergency.
Two cases of minor injuries were incorporated into the exercise to assess the readiness and effectiveness of the on-site first aid response. The first aid team, stationed with a medical kit, attended to these simulated injuries promptly, highlighting the drill’s emphasis on comprehensive emergency preparedness.
Officials noted that the exercise was conducted smoothly, demonstrating teamwork, efficient communication, and strict adherence to safety protocols. The drill also aimed to reinforce the importance of readiness for a range of marine emergencies, including vessel capsizes, and to ensure that staff can act decisively under pressure.
The Directorate of Shipping Services emphasized that such exercises form a crucial component of its safety strategy, focusing on safeguarding passengers, personnel, and marine assets. Regular drills, conducted monthly across departments as per the Chief Secretary’s directive, are intended to cultivate a robust culture of preparedness, enhance operational efficiency, and minimize risks in real-life situations.
Through this mock drill, the DSS seeks to strengthen its emergency response capabilities and ensure that teams are well-equipped to handle unexpected incidents at sea, promoting a culture of vigilance, resilience, and safety across the Union Territory’s marine operations.
This drill represents part of the administration’s broader initiative to improve disaster management and response mechanisms, ensuring public confidence and safety in maritime travel across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
