Coast Guard celebrates 9th anniversary
March 08, 2019The 09th anniversary of the Sri Lanka Coast Guard fell on Monday (04 March). Anniversary celebrations saw a series of social welfare, sports and other events being held at the SLCG Headquarters in Mirissa and also at its Rear Headquarters in Wellawatte, Colombo.
Established under The Coast Guard Act No. 41 of 2009 and enacted by the Parliament on 09th July 2009, the Sri Lanka Coast Guard Department ceremonially began its operations on 04th March 2010. The Sri Lanka Coast Guard functions under the Ministry of Defence.
Operating with the motto "Safe, Secure and Serene Seas", the Coast Guard is a law enforcement agency at sea empowered with legal authority to search and arrest ships, craft and personnel engaged in illegal activities in maritime zones of Sri Lanka and constitute legal proceedings against the offenders.
The Coast Guard also plays a pivotal role in marine pollution control, oil spill management and sustainable management and development of marine resources.
SLCG lifesaving stations have been established at a number of popular beaches around the island and so far Coast Guard lifesavers have managed to save the lives of 1248 people, both local and foreigners till the beginning of this month (01st March 2019). Its sea turtle hatchery project has seen hundreds of turtle hatchlings being released at sea.