Odisha DGP Directs Marine Police to Patrol 16 Uninhabited Islands for Enhanced Coastal Security
In a significant move to bolster coastal security measures, Odisha Director General of Police (DGP) Y B Khurania on Thursday issued clear instructions to the marine police force. The directive mandates regular patrols across the state's 16 uninhabited islands, a strategic initiative aimed at deterring potential infiltration attempts and closely monitoring any suspicious movements or activities in these vulnerable areas.
Government Prioritizes Coastal Security with Multi-Pronged Approach
"Coastal security represents a priority area for the government," emphasized DGP Khurania during his address after hoisting the national flag at Udabali island, located off the Bhadrak coast. "While drone surveillance capabilities have already been substantially strengthened along our extensive coastline, we are now taking the additional step of instructing all marine police stations to conduct systematic and regular patrols of these islands."
This announcement came during Republic Day celebrations that extended to these remote locations. Odisha boasts approximately 55 islands scattered across the sea and Chilika lake. Among these, 16 specific islands have been formally identified by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for flag hoisting ceremonies during national celebrations.
Historical Context and High-Level Participation
The practice of conducting Republic Day ceremonies on these islands was initiated last year. This decision followed a resolution passed during the All India DGP/IGP conference, which was notably held in Bhubaneswar in November 2024. The ceremony at Udabali island saw the participation of several senior police officials alongside DGP Khurania, including ADG (Railway and Coastal Security) Arun Bothra, DIG (Eastern Range) Pinak Mishra, and SP (Bhadrak) Manoj Kumar Rout.
Khurania further revealed that the Odisha Police have formulated comprehensive, long-term plans designed to modernize and significantly strengthen the entire coastal security framework. This strategic vision is now being backed by substantial financial commitment from the state government.
Substantial Budget Allocation for Modernization Initiatives
The state government has sanctioned a considerable sum of Rs 149 crore in the current budget to support these critical security initiatives. This funding is earmarked for a wide array of modernization projects, which include:
- Establishing an advanced, integrated command and control centre.
- Installing comprehensive CCTV surveillance systems at key fish landing centres.
- Upgrading infrastructure and capabilities at marine police stations located along Odisha's 575-kilometer coastline.
The substantial investment will also facilitate:
- The procurement of modern motorized boats and trawlers for patrol and response.
- The deployment of surveillance drones at every marine police station to enhance aerial monitoring.
- The engagement of naval experts and technical consultants to provide specialized knowledge.
Community Policing and Enhanced Preparedness
A key component of the new strategy involves deepening community engagement. Special marine police officers will be specifically posted at fish landing centres, and community policing activities are set to be expanded across all coastal police stations. This approach recognizes the vital role local fishing communities play in coastal security.
In light of recent tensions along the Indo-Pakistan border, Odisha has proactively intensified its preparedness measures along its own seafront. DGP Khurania highlighted the indispensable role of marine fishermen, who often serve as the first line of defense in identifying potential infiltrators or suspicious vessels operating in coastal waters.
To support these community-led vigilance efforts, police presence has been systematically increased at all major fish landing centres across the state. Odisha currently has 73 identified fish landing centres, with 32 being actively operational. This network includes four fully functional fishing harbors.
Technological Integration for Real-Time Monitoring
As part of the technological upgrade, CCTV cameras will be installed at these active centres in the near future. The video feeds from these cameras will be integrated into a state-of-the-art command and control centre to be established in Bhubaneswar. This integration will allow for real-time monitoring and a coordinated, rapid response to any security incidents along the coast, creating a more robust and technologically advanced security grid for Odisha.
