Kerala plans multi-agency mechanism for faster response to sea accidents
The Kerala Fisheries department is developing a multi-agency response mechanism to improve search and rescue operations for missing fishermen. The plan includes creating a local rapid response team and training divers to act during the critical 'golden hour' following accidents.
Why it matters
This initiative addresses a significant safety gap for coastal communities and aims to formalize emergency response protocols in the state.
The Fisheries department of Kerala plans to involve other stakeholders in forming a body capable of taking decisions when fishers go missing at sea, particularly during the crucial initial period referred to as the ‘golden hour.’
The decision was taken at a high-level meeting of officials chaired by Fisheries Minister V.E. Abdul Gafoor in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday, in the wake of protests by fishers alleging delays in search operations for three fishermen who are missing at sea in Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam districts.
The plan is to involve other agencies, such as the disaster management authority, Revenue department, police, Coastal Police, Marine Enforcement and the Navy, besides the Fisheries department, to ensure quick action in the event of accidents at sea.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in