Bhubaneswar, 10 May (H.S.): In response to escalating Indo-Pak tensions and heightened national security concerns, Odisha has ramped up coastal patrolling and surveillance along its 480-kilometre coastline. A high-level security review meeting was convened on Saturday at the Police Seva Bhavan in Bhubaneswar to evaluate current preparedness and strengthen the state’s maritime security framework.
Chaired by Odisha’s Director General of Police (DGP), the meeting included senior officials such as the Additional Director General (ADG) of Coastal Security and the ADG of Law and Order. The primary focus was on enhancing inter-agency coordination, upgrading coastal infrastructure, and ensuring the operational readiness of marine police stations and coastal protection units.
Following the meeting, ADG (Coastal Security) Arun Bothra addressed the media, stating, “We have significantly increased drone surveillance along the coastline to facilitate real-time monitoring of suspicious activities. All marine police units are on high alert, and field personnel have been instructed to maintain maximum vigilance.”
Emphasising the growing role of technology in maritime security, he noted that high-speed interceptor boats, advanced surveillance systems, and mobile patrol units have been strategically deployed across sensitive coastal areas. These assets are intended to bolster rapid response capabilities against potential threats such as infiltration, smuggling, or emergencies.
Joint coordination mechanisms with central security agencies, including the Indian Navy and the Coast Guard, have also been strengthened. “We are in constant communication with national intelligence agencies and defence forces. Plans are underway to conduct joint patrolling exercises to enhance coastal defence and response capabilities,” Bothra added.
In his opening remarks, the DGP highlighted the necessity for a collaborative, multi-agency approach to coastal security. He stressed the importance of seamless integration between the Marine Police, Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and intelligence units to establish a comprehensive security framework along Odisha’s coast. He also praised the ongoing efforts of the state police and urged them to maintain heightened vigilance during high-risk periods, such as festivals, cyclone alerts, and other critical events.
Officials reviewed the current capacity of marine police stations, assessing staffing levels, training needs, equipment availability, and infrastructure status. There was a strong emphasis on expanding coastal outposts and enhancing personnel capabilities through specialised training and improved logistical support.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda
