Maharashtra Issues Coastal Security Directives to Fishermen Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
Maharashtra Issues Coastal Security Directives to Fishermen Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
Amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan, the Maharashtra government has issued fresh coastal security directives to fishermen operating along the Palghar coast, urging them to act as the “eyes and ears” of national security, an official told PTI on Friday.
The state has asked fishermen to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious maritime activity to authorities. These directives follow a high-level meeting with Indian Navy officials aimed at strengthening coastal surveillance and preventing security breaches along the western seaboard.
Key Directives for Fishermen Amid Indo-Pak Tensions
- Avoid gathering at two identified sensitive locations near Palghar, north of Mumbai.
- Report missing or suspicious fishing boats, which could potentially be misused.
- Remain alert and cooperate with the Indian Navy and Coast Guard patrols.
- Ensure boats are equipped with transponders for location tracking.
An official noted that the Pakistani terrorists who attacked Mumbai in 2008 had used a hijacked Indian fishing boat to infiltrate Indian waters. To avoid any similar breach, the state is reinforcing coastal vigilance.
“Fishermen play a crucial role in national security. We have instructed them to report anything unusual or suspicious at sea,” the official added.
Several fishing boats from Palghar are still in the custody of Pakistani authorities after being detained for alleged trespass. Officials fear these vessels could be misused.
CM Fadnavis: State Forces on High Alert
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed on Friday that the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and state police are on high alert.
“All necessary Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) under the ‘war book’ are being followed. A review meeting on internal security is scheduled later today,” CM Fadnavis said during a press briefing in Mumbai.
The update comes a day after India repelled an attempted attack by Pakistan on military installations.
