A new course has been designed to help boost expertise levels in responding to oil pollution concerns off the Indian coast.

The project - a joint scheme between the coast guard and AMET University - offers the International Maritime Organisation Level II Oil Pollution Preparedness Response and Cooperation scheme and is designed to improve oil spill assessment and cleanup capabilities.

A pilot course was held earlier this month and another is due to start by October, the Indian Express reports.

Course designers state that it is aimed at both mid-level and senior managers of oil firms and ports.

Commander of coast guard region east inspector general A Rajasekhar told news provider PTI that the five-day intensive course is the first of its kind in the country.

India is currently grappling with an offshore oil spill, following the collision of two vessels on Saturday (August 7th). Approximately 500 tonnes of oil was spilled into the Arabian Sea following the incident.

Oil & Gas Directory: Training & Development