Paradip: On Saturday, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) exhibited its operational and search-and-rescue (SAR) capabilities while outlining plans to enhance its presence along the Odisha coast. Inspector General Iqbal Singh Chauhan (North East) stated that the force aims to bolster its network in Odisha over the next four to five years. He noted that Paradip Port is the only public sector facility where significant Coast Guard operations are conducted and mentioned plans to deploy an offshore patrol vessel at Gopalpur Port as well. Additionally, the officer indicated that discussions are ongoing with the State government about the establishment of dedicated jetties.
“The Coast Guard has proposed the creation of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) station at Dhamra Port to further enhance surveillance and response capabilities,” he explained. The two-day exercise, which took place on Friday and Saturday, featured a regional-level maritime search and rescue workshop along with a sea drill. The Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA), district administration officials, Ports, Customs, Indian Navy, Marine Police, Odisha Police, Central Industrial Security Force, Fisheries department, Forest department, and District Medical department all provided active support for the drill.