Seychelles Sinks Indian-Gifted Anti-Piracy Patrol Vessel PS Topaz After 20 Years Of Service

The Indian-gifted patrol vessel PS Topaz has been officially decommissioned by the Seychelles Coast Guard, marking the end of two decades of maritime service. Retired on May 9 during the nation’s 50th Jubilee Independence celebrations, the vessel played a critical role in anti-piracy operations across the Indian Ocean. Originally commissioned by the Indian Navy as INS Tarmugli, the ship served as a vital asset for regional security, patrolling the Seychelles Exclusive Economic Zone and safeguarding international shipping lanes.

The decommissioning process for a naval asset like PS Topaz must strictly adhere to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) guidelines regarding ship recycling and environmental safety. Under the Hong Kong International Convention for the Safe and Environmentally Sound Recycling of Ships, authorities must ensure that hazardous materials, such as asbestos and heavy metals, are managed in compliance with MARPOL Annex I and II regulations. Proper disposal protocols are essential for fleet compliance departments to maintain international maritime safety standards and environmental stewardship during the vessel's final transition.

For navigating officers and masters, the retirement of such a long-standing patrol vessel signifies a shift in regional maritime domain awareness. These professionals must update their navigational charts and operational briefings to account for the absence of PS Topaz in local patrol sectors. Navigating officers should stay informed about the deployment of replacement assets to ensure seamless communication and coordination during transit through Seychelles waters, maintaining high situational awareness regarding regional security protocols and updated coastal surveillance patterns.