Coast Guard targets complete modernisation by 2012

Port Blair, Nov 3 (UNI) The Indian Coast Guard is all set to become completely modernised by 2012, Vice-Admiral RF Contractor, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard, told mediapersons here.

The Vice-Admiral, who will be retiring on November 30 after over 37 years of distinguished service to the nation, arrived at Port Blair yesterday on a day's visit to these pristine islands.

''The modernisation of Coast Guard will be complete by 2012. The Coast Guard fleet will be equipped with bigger and faster vessels (29 knot speed) and twin engine helicopters for increased patrolling purposes,'' Mr Contractor added.

He said the new acquisition of ships will also have the capability to check pollution at sea arising out of major oil spillage.

Mentioning that the Coast Guard is concerned about the sea pollution, the DG Coast Guard, who is also the Chairman of National Oil Spill Disaster Management, said sea pollution due to oil spills is being checked.

''A policy decision is on the cards to increase the rate of cases filed on oil spillage at sea,'' he added.

UNI SKR DPM RL AS1823