A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between India and Sri Lanka for the establishment of a Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) in Colombo, Sri Lanka
On 28 March, during a visit to Sri Lanka’s capital Colombo by India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, an MOU was signed between the two nations to enhance the collective maritime security within the region. The MOU is an add-on to India’s Security and Growth for all in the Region (SAGAR) initiative in the Indian Ocean.
Better capabilities mean safer waters
The setting up of the MRCC would help Sri Lanka enhance their capacity for communication and coordination within its Search and Rescue Region in the Indian Ocean. MRCCs have the responsibility to monitor the sea lanes and are the first-hand responders to emergencies within its territory region. This means that MRCCs are a vital resource for seafarers and vessels, as they would be the first avenue to be alerted in the event of an accident or if the vessel is distressed.
This enhanced collaboration between the two countries is welcomed news for seafarers and vessels passing through Sri Lanka’s region of the Indian Ocean. Based on statistics, about 2,000 vessels and ships pass through the Sri Lankan coast daily and this figure is set to grow as Covid-19 measures are gradually eased. The proposed setting up of the MRCC in Colombo would mean having a much more advanced software system that will help keep Sri Lanka’s region of the Indian Ocean safer for seafarer passage.
Crewing Online Media Team
Please email us at marketing@marineonline.com to contact the author for this article.
