Gandhinagar, June 17 (IANS) Gujarat has become the first state in the country to dedicate a public traffic circle to the Indian Coast Guard, with the inauguration of the ‘Bharatiya Tatrakshak Swarn Jayanti Circle’ in Gandhinagar to mark the force’s 50th anniversary.

The circle, formerly known as CHH-4B Circle, was renamed by the state government in recognition of the Indian Coast Guard’s five decades of dedicated and meritorious service to the nation.

The landmark was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Harsh Sanghavi in the presence of Inspector General Tekur Sashi Kumar, TM, Commander, Indian Coast Guard Region (North West), along with senior state government officials, Indian Coast Guard veterans, officers and enrolled personnel.

“The inauguration marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the Indian Coast Guard and the state. It is the first public circle in the country to be dedicated to the Indian Coast Guard,” officials said.

The ‘Bharatiya Tatrakshak Swarn Jayanti Circle’ has been designed to reflect the operational capabilities and ethos of the maritime force.

At its centre is a representation of an Indian Coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), symbolising deterrence, maritime dominance and the protection of Gujarat’s coastline and maritime borders.

The installation also features a Dornier aircraft and an Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), highlighting the swift response capability, air surveillance expertise and operational reach of the Coast Guard’s aviation wing.

Statues of Coast Guard personnel have been erected to represent the force’s constant vigilance and dedication to duty.

In addition, a digital wall has been installed at the site, providing a continuous display of Indian Coast Guard activities and operations.

Officials said the exhibit is intended to promote awareness of the service among the public while reinforcing the message that the Indian Coast Guard remains “ever vigilant at sea 24×7×365, guarding the nation’s maritime interests without pause”.

The state government said the inauguration reflects an inclusive approach towards recognising the contribution of forces that work to protect the country’s maritime frontiers.

The circle is expected to serve as a permanent source of public awareness and inspiration, highlighting the Indian Coast Guard’s role in coastal security, environmental protection, humanitarian assistance and nation-building.

Officials noted that the landmark stands as a tribute to the unwavering commitment and dedication of the Indian Coast Guard and is intended to promote a deeper sense of pride and understanding among citizens about the force’s contribution to safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

–IANS

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