Lok Sabha Debates
Need To Augment The Security Along The Coastal Areas Of Gujarat -Laid. on 11 December, 2008
p> Title: Need to augment the security along the Coastal areas of Gujarat -laid.
SHRI KASHIRAM RANA (SURAT): Gujarat has a long coast line and having international border with Pakistan assumes added importance concerning coastal security. It has been observed that certain areas between jakhau and Chhad belt are not being covered effectively by any security patrolling. Neither the Coast Guard nor the Water Wing of BSF is able to patrol as the shallow water does not allow existing boats to operate. During the low tide certain land mass comes up and it becomes difficult to approach the areas which may be used by the terrorists and infiltrators for dumping contraband items. The security personnel in this area should be provided with appropriate equipment, particularly the boats so that they can effectively patrol the area. Besides, along the coastline number of small islands exist which need to be watched. The security systems available with the Ports are inadequate and in absence of specialized equipment, unwanted materials may be easily smuggled in. The small fishing harbours do not have basic facilities for security check and number of fishing boats are engaged in the coast round the year. The Customs departments have no such means to effectively check smuggling of any contraband item through such fishing boats. The Vessel Traffic monitoring system in the entire coast needs to be operationalised at the earliest.
The Gujarat State Government had sent a comprehensive scheme on 30.5.2005 on coastal security involving Rs. 392.47 crores to the Government of India which included setting up of 51 coastal police stations in 11 coastal districts of the State against which only 10 police stations have been approved. Against the proposal of 70 Outposts, only 46 Outposts have been sanctioned. The State Government also proposed camel patrolling system consisting of 53 camels and 106 camel riders, which has not been approved by the Government, of India. The State Govt, proposed to erect 90 watch towers, which have also not been approved by the Govt, of India. Against the Rs. 392.47 crores prospective plan, the Government, of India has approved only Rs. 58.42 crores.
Besides, State Government's proposal dated 29.12.2006 for upgradation of 39 existing Police Stations on the coastline has not been considered by Govt, of India as yet. Effective security requires dotting of coastline with facilities like police stations, outposts etc. as many areas adjoining the sea are inaccessible and because of the heavy fishing activities, effective interception in the sea is difficult.
In these circumstances I urge upon to the Government to approve the proposal of the Gujarat State Government, immediately.