Odisha's Coastal Security Heightened Amidst Rising Tensions with Pakistan
Enhanced Security Measures in Odisha
Bhubaneswar: Following the announcement by Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi regarding potential maritime threats due to escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan, local police have ramped up security measures along the state's coastline and around critical infrastructure.
Special security protocols have been established to protect key sites, including the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, the Hirakud Dam in Sambalpur, Paradip Port in Jagatsinghpur, and the Ordnance Factory in Bolangir, among others.
In a statement on X, the Odisha Police noted, "The Indian Army is executing Operation Sindoor and has issued a high alert. In response, our police force is conducting continuous patrols to secure Odisha's coastline."
All fishing boats and suspicious individuals are being thoroughly scrutinized, they added.
"We are fully prepared to thwart any potential terrorist threats and prioritize public safety," the Odisha Police emphasized on social media.
To enhance safety, security measures at railway stations have been intensified to prevent possible attacks. Armed personnel are stationed at all entry and exit points, and metal detectors are being used to inspect train coaches and platforms. The police urged the public to report any suspicious activity immediately.
Chief Minister Majhi highlighted the risks posed by the state's extensive 480-kilometer coastline, which hosts significant facilities like the missile testing center at Chandipur and the revered Shree Jagannath Dham.
"While there is no direct threat to the Shree Jagannath Temple, we are taking extra precautions following incidents where terrorists targeted tourists based on their religion in Pahalgam, J&K," a senior official stated.
Armed police have been deployed around the Shree Jagannath Temple to ensure the safety of the millions of pilgrims visiting annually.
The police are conducting thorough checks and asking devotees for their cooperation. Anti-sabotage teams are regularly inspecting the temple area, which is under constant CCTV surveillance, according to Puri SP Vinit Agrawal.
A team from the National Security Guard (NSG) visited Puri on May 5 and 6 to oversee security measures at the historic shrine, evaluating entry and exit protocols, crowd management, and emergency response strategies.
Local police have instructed hotel owners to maintain accurate guest records and report any suspicious activities.
Vehicle inspections are ongoing at various locations in Puri, and marine fishing communities have been alerted to monitor vessels closely.
An emergency meeting was convened to discuss security at the ITR in Chandipur, which also houses the Proof and Experimental Establishment (PXE), a key DRDO facility.
Plans for enhanced security at ITR and Wheeler Island, where significant missile tests occur, have been developed by senior police officials, DRDO representatives, coast guard, and marine police.
Security measures have also been tightened at the Army Air Defence College near Gopalpur, the ordnance factory in Bolangir, INS Chilka, and the Indian Rare Earths Limited (IERL) near Chhatrapur.
The Hirakud Dam, recognized as the longest earthen dam in Asia, is under increased surveillance.
Paradip Port authorities are also maintaining a high alert status, as confirmed by officials.
Security has been reinforced at Biju Patnaik International Airport (BPIA) in Bhubaneswar and VSS Airport in Jharsuguda, with passengers undergoing comprehensive security checks before boarding flights. Travelers are advised to arrive early to ensure a smooth process.