Odisha to Strengthen Coastal Security with New Special Board and Upgraded Infrastructure

Bhubaneswar: In a decisive move to bolster coastal security, Odisha will soon establish a special board comprising officers from the Coast Guard and Odisha Police. This board will undertake a thorough inspection of the state’s coastal areas and provide recommendations to enhance security measures. Based on their report, Marine Police Stations will be equipped with advanced boats and other essential infrastructure to improve surveillance and response capabilities.

Announcing the initiative after a meeting with Additional Director General Donny Michael, Coast Guard Commander (Eastern Seaboard), DGP YB Khurania revealed that retired personnel from the Coast Guard and Indian Navy would be appointed to Marine Police Stations. This step is expected to bring experienced maritime expertise to the state’s security apparatus.

The discussions between DGP Khurania and ADG Donny Michael centered on disaster preparedness, strengthening coastal security, and improving inter-departmental coordination. Both sides explored ways to enhance patrolling efforts, monitor suspicious air movements along the coastline, and improve the coastal control system. The possibility of greater cooperation and support from the Coast Guard to assist Odisha Police was also discussed.

DGP Khurania assured the media that all necessary steps would be taken to implement these initiatives effectively. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong and enduring relationship between the Odisha Police and the Coast Guard to address security challenges and ensure the safety of the state’s coastline.