Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Police is taking steps to further strengthen coastal security by introducing a number of new measures,, including the formation of an independent board with the Indian Coast Guard.
This information was shared by Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania after ADG Donny Michael, Coast Guard Commander (Eastern Seaboard), met him in Bhubaneswar and held discussion on several issues including coastal security measures.
In the meeting, issues related to disaster preparedness and coastal security were discussed. It was decided to have closer coordination between both the security agencies in the coming days
Khurania said that the formation of an independent board will improve management and surveillance along the state’s coastline. The board will consist of officers from the Odisha Police and the Indian Coast Guard.
These officials will conduct thorough surveys and assess the security needs of coastal areas. Retired officers from the Coast Guard and Navy will be deployed under the Marine Police to utilize their expertise in coastal security, the police chief said.
Increased patrolling in coastal regions, expansion of aerial surveillance for better monitoring, and establishment of a Command and Control setup for swift coordination and response are among the major aspects of the plan. The board will work towards identifying specific requirements for coastal security, and after reviewing the survey reports, necessary arrangements will be made in this regard, he said
Khurania highlighted the importance of securing the state’s coastline and ensuring effective coordination between the police and the Coast Guard.