Kendrapada: Coastal security has been substantially tightened in Odisha’s Kendrapada district to prevent possible infiltration of illegal Bangladeshis following strict verification and eviction drives in West Bengal.
Officials said surveillance has been stepped by security agencies along vulnerable sea routes in the coastal district, particularly in Mahakalpada and Rajnagar areas.
There is information about thousands of suspected infiltrators without valid documents currently stranded near the border in West Bengal.
Intelligence reports indicate that some of them may attempt to enter Odisha via coastal routes, prompting state authorities to step up preventive measures.
Marine police stations across Kendrapada district have intensified operations, including drone surveillance and night patrolling along the coastline following instructions from top officials.
Strict checks are being maintained at sensitive sea routes to prevent illegal entry into the state. “We are keeping a strict vigil and a tight check on every intelligence input. Night patrols are being conducted 30–50 nautical miles into the sea. People passing through the sea border are being checked for fishing cards, Aadhaar cards, and other identity documents. Those without valid IDs are being handed over to the police station,” a senior police official said
Intelligence inputs are being continuously monitored and shared among senior officers to strengthen security measures. Fishing activities are under close scrutiny, with the Fisheries Department reporting 392 registered boats operating in the region.
