Odisha ports to get major boost as Coast Guard plans to increase ships, set up drone unit

The Coast Guard will soon be stationed at all major ports in Odisha. A Coast Guard ship is set to be deployed at Gopalpur Port, while the number of vessels at Paradip Port will be increased.

New jetties along with Coast Guard branches are planned at both Gopalpur and Dhamra ports. Additionally, a dedicated Coast Guard drone unit will be established at Dhamra Port.

Coast Guard IG Iqbal Singh Chauhan informed on Saturday that these proposals have been submitted to the Chief Minister.

Meanwhile, the Coast Guard reportedly carried out a search and rescue operation in the deep sea off the Paradip coast today. Teams from both the Coast Guard and local search-and-rescue units took part in the exercise. The operation aimed to curb smuggling, prevent illegal intrusion, and strengthen preparedness for various coastal emergencies. A large-scale rehearsal was also conducted to train personnel for effective emergency response.

Also Read: Indian Coast Guard holds major search and rescue drill in Paradip; infiltration, smuggling in focus

“At present, Paradip has a major port, and most of our ships are located here. The Chief Minister of Odisha has assured that space will be provided wherever new ports come up. The Indian Coast Guard also wants to expand significantly in Odisha. We are trying to base additional large ships, such as offshore patrol vessels, at Gopalpur. We have held discussions with private port authorities and requested them to provide jetties for our use,” said Coast Guard IG Iqbal Singh Chauhan.

“Apart from this, discussions are underway to set up Unmanned Aerial Vehicle or drone stations at Dhamra. The Indian Coast Guard’s presence in Odisha is expected to increase substantially in the next four to five years,” he added.