Maritime terrorism continues to be a major threat: Rajnath

Vasco (Goa), Sep 9 (PTI) Terming maritime terrorism as amajor threat, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh today said thegovernment has started the process of security audit toidentify vulnerable areas in the seas and along the coastline. After commissioning Coast Guard ship ‘Sarathi’, Singhsaid the government has been successful in addressing theissues pertaining to maritime security post Mumbai terrorattack in November 2008 which was carried out by terroristswho came through the sea. "Maritime terrorism continues to be a security threat aswe have a long coastline with many big cities and securityinstallations. "We have started the process of security audit to identifyvulnerable areas in our seas and coastal areas," he said inpresence of Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar here. The Home Minister said the central government hasadopted a comprehensive and integrated coastal securityscheme to strengthen India’s coastal network. "For better coordination among the agencies responsiblefor coastal security, the Director General of Coast Guard hasbeen designated as commander of coastal security," he said,adding the coast guarding force should also work towards thesafety and conservation of India’s maritime ecosystem. "Oceans and seas act as natural security shields and alsobring new opportunities for eco prosperity," he said. Highlighting the role of Coast Guard, the Home Ministerhailed it as the central pillar of India’s securityarchitecture with two other important pillars of Navy andMarine Police. The Coast Guard ship ‘Sarathi’ is the third in the seriesof six 105 meters offshore patrol vessels. ‘Sarathi’ meaning ‘charioteer’ is a projection of IndianCoast Guard’s will and commitment to serve and protect themaritime interests of the nation. The ship has been designed and built indigenously by GoaShipyard Ltd and fitted with advanced navigation andcommunication equipment and sensors. The features include an integrated bridge system,integrated machinery control system, power management systemand high power external fire fighting system. ICGS ‘Sarathi’ is designed to carry one twin engine lighthelicopter and five high-speed boats, including two for fastboarding operations, search and rescue, law enforcement andmaritime patrol at sea. The ship is also capable of carrying pollution responseequipment to combat any oil spill contamination at sea. The ship draws 2,350 tonnes and is propelled by two 9,100KW diesel engine to attain a maximum speed of 23 knots and hasan endurance of 6,000 nautical miles at economical speed. The ship has a complement of 14 officers and 98 men. PTIACB KIS RTKIS