Fishermen roped in by Coast Guard to boost maritime security

The Coast Guard has taken the initiative to involve fishermen to play a significant role in maritime security.

Fishermen have to spend most of their time in a day in sea. They are, thus, the best people to keep a watch and inform the Coast Guard, or any other security agency in the country, in case they find anything suspicious along the coast.

It may be mentioned that after the 26/11 Mumbai attack in 2008, investigating officers had got several leads about the attackers from fishermen, who had seen them entering the country by hijacking a fishing boat.

To promote the cause, the Coast Guard decided to hold a motorcycle rally where its personnel, Marine Police and fishermen will be participating.

The idea was mooted to create awareness among the fishermen and to make them realise they are a vital part of maritime security.

Former Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha flagged off the rally.

The rally, which began on Wednesday, will end on January 24 and the bikers will be passing through different coastal areas including Contai, Digha, Dhamra, Paradip, Chandipur and Haldia.

Doctors will be accompanying the bikers at the rally and they will be hold free medical camps for the fishermen.