By Bizodisha Bureau, Bhubaneswar, September 1, 2015 : Coastal security network along with infrastructural support for coast guard will be strengthened in Odisha.

This issue cropped up at a high level meeting between chief secretary Gokul Chandra Pati and Commander Coast Guard Region (North East) inspector general, K.R. Nautiyal here.

The issues relating to availability of near the Airport for building up coast guard operational area for infrastructural support to smooth search and rescue operation, landing of air craft, quick response team, maritime and other security servicers were discussed in the meeting.

Nautiyal also requested for one acre of land at Chandrabhaga and one acre at Arakuda, Puri for setting up of remote radar stations in phase –II of the chain of static sensors network. The proposal for operation of coast guard Dornier aircraft at Berhampur runway was also discussed in the meeting. Pati advised to take up a feasibility study on this and come up with concrete suggestions.

Pati suggested the IG to mobilize more Odia youths to join Indian coast guard services through their recruitment center operating at Paradeep.

There will be special presentations in various colleges of the State for sensitizing the students about the carrier opportunities available in these services.

It has also been decided to hold a State level seminar at Bhubaneswar to kick start the sensitization programme.

Around 700 youths are being recruited each year to this service, Nautiyal said adding that officers recruited so far have been found very effective and smart in this service.