To boost security along the 1,600-km long Gujarat coastline, the Centre has allotted a state-of-the-art patrol boat, which has been placed under the Somnath marine police station in Junagadh district.

Junagadh Superintendent of Police Maninder Singh Puwar launched the boat on Saturday.

He also took stock of the various aspects of marine security.

“The fully equipped high speed patrol boat will help to take effective steps,” he said.

According to Puwar, with the trial run of the boat, marine patrolling has begun. It will, however, take a couple of more days for the round-the-clock patrolling to begin, as registration of the boat and other legalities are yet to be completed.

Officials said the boat cost Rs 2.5 crore and can run at the maximum speed of 40 nautical miles per hour.

It is equipped with radar, ground positioning system, wireless, sound system and floodlights among others.

Apart from a four-member crew, the boat can accommodate 16 security personnel. A retired Navy Captain has been appointed to look after the maintenance and operation of the boat, said officials.

The boat will patrol the entire coastal belt under the jurisdiction of the Somnath marine police station.

Adequate staff will be posted soon to do the round-the-clock patrolling in three shifts, the officials added.