Aux barge
{{Short description|Support vessel of the Indian Coast Guard}}
The Auxiliary Barge (Aux Barge) of the Indian Coast Guard is a support vessel used primarily for logistical and operational assistance to the Coast Guard fleet. These barges play a crucial role in refuelling, resupply, repair, and transport of essential materials and personnel to ICG ships operating at sea.
The Indian Coast Guard operates a fleet of six auxiliary barges that provide logistical support to its maritime operations. These vessels play a crucial role in extending the operational range of ICG ships by facilitating refueling, resupply, and maintenance activities.
As of November 2024, the Indian Coast Guard operates a fleet of six auxiliary barges. These vessels are integral to the ICG's logistical framework, providing essential support for various maritime operations. One notable addition to this fleet is the Auxiliary Barge Urja Prabha, which was launched in March 2022. Measuring 36.96 meters in length with a draft of 1.85 meters, Urja Prabha enhances the ICG's operational capabilities by extending logistics support.{{cite news |author= |date= |title= Indian Coast Guard launches auxiliary barge Urja Prabha in Bharuch |url= https://theprint.in/india/guj-indian-coast-guard-launches-auxiliary-barge-urja-prabha-in-bharuch/860148/|work= |location= New Delhi|publisher= The Print|access-date=}}
Notable inductions
One of the recent additions to the fleet is the Auxiliary Barge Urja Prabha, launched in March 2022. The vessel measures 36.96 meters in length with a draft of 1.85 meters and is designed to enhance logistical support for ICG vessels deployed along the coastline and in offshore areas.{{cite news |author= |date= |title= Indian Coast Guard launches auxiliary barge Urja Prabha in Bharuch |url= https://theprint.in/india/guj-indian-coast-guard-launches-auxiliary-barge-urja-prabha-in-bharuch/860148/|work= |location= New Delhi|publisher= The Print|access-date=}}
Future developments
In June 2024, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the procurement of 48 flexible barges, including 27 units with a 30-ton capacity and 21 units with a 10-ton capacity. This initiative is aimed at augmenting the Coast Guard's logistical infrastructure and operational eff iciency.{{cite web |last= |first= |date=4 June 2024 |title= RFP by MOD for Barge Procurement |url= https://indiancoastguard.gov.in/sites/default/files/202406051117399470859RFPfor48nos.flexiblebarges_compressed.pdf?utm_source=chatgpt.com|website=indiancoastguard.gov.in|location= New Delhi|publisher= Ministry of Defence |access-date=}}
Operational significance
The auxiliary barges support a variety of ICG functions, including:
- Fuel and Water Supply: Providing replenishment to Coast Guard vessels at sea.
- Cargo Transport: Facilitating the movement of essential supplies and equipment.
- Search and Rescue (SAR) Support: Assisting in extended SAR operations.
- Maritime Law Enforcement: Enabling sustained patrolling and surveillance.
- Disaster Relief Operations: Supporting humanitarian assistance efforts during coastal disasters.
Through the contribution of these vessels the Indian Coast Guard ensures the overall efficiency, sustained maritime security, environmental protection, and law enforcement along India's coastline.