In a groundbreaking move to bolster coordination and preparedness in aviation search and rescue services, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) successfully conducted the “Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX-2024)” at its Rescue sub-center, located at Guwahati’s Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA). The two-day event, held on February 15 and 16, featured a comprehensive satellite-aided exercise, including a full-scale mock drill near Chandubi in the Kamrup (Rural) area.
Technical Insights and Full-Scale Simulations
The inaugural day commenced with a conference in Guwahati, delving into the technical intricacies of aeronautical search and rescue operations. On the second day, Chandubi witnessed a full-scale mock exercise, replicating real-life scenarios. This allowed for a thorough assessment of response times, communication protocols, and coordination among the diverse agencies involved.
The collaborative effort showcased the participation of various key agencies, such as the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), Indian Air Force (IAF), Indian Navy, Indian Army, Assam police and administration, and Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO’s) Indian Mission Control Center (INMCC).
The event concluded with debriefing sessions, where feedback and closing remarks emphasized the significance of exercise preparedness and execution. SAREX-2024, a pioneering initiative for the Northeastern region, underscored the crucial role of collaborative efforts in elevating safety standards and preparedness in aviation search and rescue operations.
The exercise unveiled a new dimension of collaborative response in a region where challenging terrains and unpredictable weather conditions often pose significant obstacles to aviation-related search and rescue missions. The top management officials of AAI highlighted that similar approaches have contributed to making the aviation sector the safest and preferred mode of transport globally.
