The Ministry of State for Home Affairs has confirmed that none of the 18 coastal surveillance boats sanctioned for West Bengal are currently operational. This revelation comes amid growing concerns about the security along India’s coastline, particularly in West Bengal, which is vulnerable to maritime threats and illegal activities.
The boats, intended to enhance coastal surveillance and improve the response capabilities of local security forces, were part of a broader national initiative to bolster maritime security. However, despite being sanctioned, the vessels have not been deployed, raising questions about the readiness of the coastal security infrastructure in the state.
In a statement, the MoS for Home Affairs explained that while the boats were sanctioned several years ago, technical and logistical issues have delayed their operational status. Authorities are reportedly investigating the reasons behind the delay, with discussions on expediting their deployment ongoing.
The lack of operational boats has been a cause of concern for security agencies, as coastal surveillance is a critical element in protecting the country from maritime threats such as human trafficking, smuggling, and potential security breaches. The Indian government has prioritized coastal security after the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and the delay in deploying the boats is seen as a setback in this important security initiative.
West Bengal's long and vulnerable coastline, which stretches along the Bay of Bengal, has been a focal point for coastal security agencies, and the operationalization of these boats is seen as vital in ensuring effective monitoring. The state has been urged to expedite efforts to address the issue and improve its coastal surveillance capabilities.
This development has sparked calls for greater accountability and a reevaluation of security readiness in coastal states across the country.
