The Hindu : National : “Coastal security strengthened since 26/11”

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National

“Coastal security strengthened since 26/11”

Special Correspondent

Identified gaps to be addressed in Phase-II of the Coastal Security Scheme next year: Chidambaram

So far, 71 coastal police stations operationalised
2,000 police personnel given specialised training

NEW DELHI: Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram on Wednesday said that significant progress had been made, since the 26/11 terrorist attacks in Mumbai, to strengthen the coastal security of the country.

The identified gaps in security would be addressed through Phase-II of the Coastal Security Scheme (CSS) to be launched next year, he said. Mr. Chidambaram was addressing the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of his Ministry here, which focussed on the “Coastal Security”.

He said that coastal police stations and boats were well-equipped and that around 2,000 police personnel had been given specialised training so far. To ensure better coordination among different agencies, Coastal Command and Joint Operation Centres have been set up. The first phase of the CSS, in operation since 2005-06, will come to an end in March next year. The second phase, which will be launched thereafter, will considerably strengthen infrastructure in terms of boats, police stations, jetties, vehicles, equipment, trained personnel, he told the meeting.

Responding to a query by the members, Mr. Chidambaram said that Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu and other key installations on the country's coast were well-protected and there need not be any apprehension in this regard.

On another query, he said that there was no proposal to entrust coastal security to the Border Security Force or raise another Central force for the purpose. Taking part in the deliberations, members appreciated the steps taken by the Home Ministry towards strengthening coastal security, and stressed the need to augment funds for it.

Some members pointed out the need to retain police personnel specially trained in coastal security and not transfer them to other areas of policing. Members also stressed the importance of enlisting the cooperation of fishermen and other local groups to ensure security.

The CSS aims at providing assistance to nine States — Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa and West Bengal; and four Union Territories — Daman & Diu, Lakshadweep, Puducherry and Andaman & Nicobar Islands — to strengthen their infrastructure for marine policing. The scheme provides for the setting up of 73 coastal police stations, 97 check posts, 58 outposts and 30 operational barracks. So far, 71 police stations have been operationalised and construction of 75 check posts, 54 outposts and 22 barracks completed. About 158 boats were delivered to coastal States and union territories till last month.

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