Bhubaneswar, June 4 (IANS) Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Y.B. Khurania inaugurated a state-level multi-agency coastal security seminar, stating that the deliberations in the day-long workshop would generate valuable insights and recommendations to further strengthen Odisha’s coastal security framework.

The one-day workshop witnessed participation from 18 agencies, including the Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, port authorities, the Directorate of Fisheries, officials from neighbouring states, and various agencies of the Government of India.

Throughout the day, experts and stakeholders discussed key technical aspects and emerging challenges in coastal security across six technical sessions. Senior officials and experts from various security and administrative agencies of the Central and State Governments participated in the conference and shared their experiences on various aspects of coastal security.

Addressing the gathering, Khurania said coastal security is a critical part of the country’s internal security system. It is closely linked to economic development, maritime trade, and public safety. As Odisha’s 574.7-km-long coastline and major ports such as Paradip, Dhamra, and Gopalpur play a significant role in the state’s economic growth, ensuring the security of coastal areas has been accorded the highest priority.

Highlighting the state police’s achievements in coastal security over the past few years, the DGP said that more than 700 police personnel are currently deployed across 18 Marine Police Stations along the coast.

He also stated that the state government has accorded high priority to coastal security and earmarked around Rs 150–200 crore over the last two years for strengthening the state’s coastal security infrastructure and surveillance capabilities. Maritime patrolling has been strengthened by 15 Fast Interceptor Boats, 5 drones, and 5 hired trawlers.

He added that CCTV surveillance systems are being installed at fish landing centres across the coast. Khurania further informed that to make coastal security more modern and effective, Odisha Police plan to deploy 10 additional Fast Interceptor Boats, more trawlers, mini control centres, CCTV surveillance systems at fishing harbours and fish landing centres, modular jetties, and advanced anti-drone systems in the coming years.

Additionally, Special Police Officers have been recruited and trained to support coastal security operations. A state-of-the-art Command and Control Centre established in Bhubaneswar will provide centralised live feeds from marine police stations, drones, patrol boats, and other surveillance platforms. Data and intelligence from various central and state agencies will also be integrated at the facility.

Khurania added that the NABHMITRA application is being used to monitor the movement of fishing boats, while retired officers from the Navy and Coast Guard have also been integrated into the coastal security framework. He emphasised that stronger coordination among various agencies, the effective use of modern technology, and the active participation of fishing communities are essential to further strengthen coastal security.

Speaking to the media, DGP Khurania expressed confidence that, within the next two years, the Odisha Police Coastal Security Wing would emerge as one of the finest coastal security units in the country.

–IANS

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