Enhancing emergency response to hazardous threats
National port exercise enhances response mechanisms and readiness to hazardous threats
MAURITIUS: A full-scale simulation exercise saw some 200 emergency responders participate in joint multi-agency emergency and response training to enhance response mechanisms and readiness to hazardous threats.
The Mauritius Port Exercise (PortEx2026) response initiative against Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) threats using newly deployed emergency response equipment, was held, yesterday at various locations within the Port of Port Louis.
The exercise was organised by the Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA), in collaboration with the NDRRMC and the United States Defence Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA), as part of the continued cooperation between Mauritius and the United States of America (USA) in strengthening the Republic’s national emergency preparedness and response mechanisms.
The PortEX 2026 followed several capacity-building programmes combining theoretical, technical and field modules. Prior to the simulation event, a Counter-Proliferation Tabletop Exercise and Port Exercise Planning Workshop took place in January 2026. The objectives were to analyse the existing national plans, policies and procedures, identify actionable recommendations, and reinforce preparations for the PortEx.
Simulation of emergency incidents
Some 200 emergency responders, including officers from the Mauritius Fire and Rescue Service and the Special Mobile Force (SMF), were deployed as part of the simulation exercise involving an explosion in a container within the port area, resulting in the mock release of toxic gases, casualties, and fatalities.
Several national stakeholders from 26 ministries and organisations were thus able to assess the operational readiness, enhance the coordination mechanism and improve Mauritius ‘resilience in responding to major incidents within the maritime and port sectors.
Speaking at a briefing session after the exercise, the Port Master, Captain Louis Gervais Benoit Barbeau emphasised the strategic importance of the port as the gateway and transit point for major imports and exports. He highlighted the significance of the exercise in evaluating national inter-agency communication and coordination, as well as assessing the Port Security Plan and the Port Disaster Management Plan. He also expressed his gratitude to the USA for the training and coordination provided.
PHOTO: Some 200 emergency responders participated in simulation exercises that included an explosion in a container within the port area, resulting in the mock release of toxic gases, casualties, and fatalities.
17