What Are Search And Rescue (SAR) Operations?

Search and Rescue (SAR) operations are coordinated efforts to locate, assist, and save people who are in distress or imminent danger, especially at sea or in other remote or hazardous environments. SAR plays a critical role in maritime safety by responding swiftly to emergencies such as shipwrecks, aircraft crashes, or natural disasters. These operations are governed by international agreements and national laws to ensure effective coordination among multiple agencies and countries.

Details of SAR Operations:

Purpose of SAR Operations:

• To quickly locate and provide assistance to persons or vessels in distress to save lives and prevent injury or loss.
• To minimize the impact of maritime and other emergencies through timely rescue and medical aid.

Types of SAR Operations:

• Maritime SAR: Rescue of ships or individuals in distress at sea.
• Aeronautical SAR: Search and rescue of aircraft and crew involved in accidents.
• Land-based SAR: Assistance during natural disasters or accidents in difficult terrain.

Key Organizations Involved:

• Indian Coast Guard: Primary agency for maritime SAR in India’s territorial waters and EEZ.
• Indian Navy: Supports SAR operations in broader maritime zones and during large-scale emergencies.
• Civil Aviation Authorities: Coordinate aeronautical SAR operations.
• Other Government Agencies: Disaster management, police, and medical services also participate as needed.

International Framework:

• The International Convention on Maritime Search and Rescue (SAR Convention), 1979 under the IMO sets global standards for SAR operations.
• Defines SAR regions, responsibilities of coastal states, and promotes cooperation among nations.

SAR Coordination Centers:

• India operates Maritime Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) that receive distress signals and coordinate SAR missions.
• MRCCs work in partnership with regional and international centers for wider coverage.

Process of SAR Operations:

• Detection of distress signals via radio, satellite, or emergency beacons (EPIRBs).
• Mobilization of rescue assets such as ships, helicopters, aircraft, and trained personnel.
• On-scene coordination to locate, provide medical aid, and evacuate survivors.
• Post-rescue support including transportation to safe locations and investigation.

Technology in SAR:

• Use of radar, sonar, satellite communication, GPS, and drones enhances effectiveness.
• Digital systems facilitate real-time tracking and coordination.

Legal Obligations:

• Under UNCLOS and SAR Convention, coastal states must establish SAR services in their waters.
• Ships are obligated to assist persons in distress at sea.

Example:

In 2020, the Indian Coast Guard conducted a large-scale SAR operation to rescue fishermen caught in a severe cyclone off the Tamil Nadu coast. Using helicopters, ships, and coordination through MRCC Chennai, over 200 lives were saved, demonstrating effective SAR coordination and response.