Forms panel to suggest measures for upgrading coastal security; report expected in two-three weeks

The state government has set up a committee to gauge the vulnerability of Bengal’s coastline to terrorist attacks and suggest measures to upgrade coastal security in the wake of the 26/11 terror attacks in Mumbai in which the terrorists had sneaked into the city through sea route. The committee will submit its report in two to three weeks.

Meanwhile, State Home Secretary Ardhendu Sen is scheduled to visit Delhi on Sunday for a meeting regarding the proposed NSG hub in Bengal. The state government will also get 12 speed boats from Gardenreach Shipbuilding Yard.

“After the committee submits its report, we will send a proposal to the Union government for up-gradation of coastal security,” Sen said.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting held at Writers’ Buildings, senior state government officials and police officers were present. The meeting was also attended by Nirmal Verma, vice admiral of the Indian Navy and C V Murlidharan, IG (BSF) in south Bengal.

While the construction of four coastal police stations has already been started, the government has created 300 posts for constables and officers, a proposal that has been in the pipeline the past two years. The state Public Service Commission has been asked to start the recruitment.

Six police stations are expected to come at Hemnagar in North 24-Parganas district, Dighamohana, Talpatti, Haldibari, all in East Midnapore district and Frasergunj and Krishorimohanpur in South 24-Parganas district. Further 17 outposts are going to be set up.

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