Ferry sinking scenario for maritime search and rescue exercise [1]
Friday, November 30, 2018 - 18:02. Updated on Monday, August 17, 2020 - 18:15.
A Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise led by Tonga Police and supported by key partners on November 26, aimed to test weaknesses and strengths in a Tonga National Search and Rescue Plan.
Police Search and Rescue National Commander, Acting Deputy Commissioner ‘Atunaisa Taumoepeau said this was the first time that a full scale Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise has been held in Tonga, with multi-agency participation.
The full-scale exercise was held on the water north of Nuku’alofa with the Command centre at Police Headquarters.
He said the exercise scenario of “a sinking passenger ferry MV ‘Otuanga’ofa” was designed to test the interoperability of command, control and communication as well as logistical support in a multi-agency response.
“We face unique challenges when it comes to maritime search and rescue especially with the way our small Islands are spread over the ocean. All key agencies need to be working together to build our capability and resilience to any disaster or emergency, big or small.”
He commended the participation of all government key ministries, non-government agencies, individual ship owners and others who heard about the exercise and wanted to participate.
“Everyone now has a clearer understanding of the importance of a Search and Rescue situation of this magnitude.
He said they have identified some opportunities to improve and that was the whole point of the exercise as preparation is the key.
"It is important that we have the right knowledge, experience and equipment but most importantly the right people in the right role to meet any challenges. We need to maintain and build the capability to respond quickly and professionally in a coordinated manner to any eventuality. Our business is to save lives."
Tonga Navy vessel and Tonga Police Search and Rescue, and other vessels joined in the exercise.
Agencies included HMAF/Tonga Navy, Ministry for Infrastructure, National Emergency Management Office (NEMO), Ports Authority, Friendly Islands Shipping Agency (FISA), Tonga Red Cross, Ministry of Health, and others.