Karachi, The sea phase of the International Marine Oil Spill Exercise Barracuda-XII was successfully conducted today in the North Arabian Sea. The exercise, which involved various national and international stakeholders, aimed to enhance the capacity and proficiency in combating marine pollution.

According to Pakistan Navy, the Chief Minister of Sindh, Maqbool Baqar, attended the event as the chief guest, observing the exercises onboard the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) Ship KASHMIR. The exercise featured air and surface assets from the Pakistan Navy, PMSA, Pakistan Air Force, and other national entities. Drills demonstrated during the exercise included containment of oil spills, search and rescue operations, and anti-piracy measures, executed by Pakistan Navy and PMSA aircraft, Pakistan Navy and Pakistan Air Force helicopters, and PMSA ships.

The drills attracted fifteen foreign observers and representatives from various national stakeholders, who commended the efforts of the Pakistan Navy and PMSA in preparing for maritime disasters. The exercise was part of a three-day event, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in addressing marine pollution incidents.

The opening brief of Exercise Barracuda-XII took place in Karachi, attended by foreign observers and delegates from relevant stakeholders. The brief outlined the exercise’s aims and objectives, and featured scholarly presentations on oil spill response and search and rescue operations at sea by national and international speakers.

Barracuda-XII, a marine oil spill exercise, demonstrates the commitment of Pakistan and its international partners to upholding maritime regulations and combating sea pollution. The successful conclusion of this event underlines the significance of continued cooperation in maritime safety and environmental protection, offering valuable lessons and strengthening relationships for future challenges in these areas.