The sea off Paradip coast turned into a virtual war-zone with the coast guard displaying its coastal surveillance prowess and combative skills.

As part of its ‘A Day at Sea’ programme, the coast guard showcased a mid-sea display of security drill with families of coast guard personnel and select audience of the CISF, dignitaries of Paradip Port Trust, Indian Oil, Essar and the NCC for three days. 

The event concluded on Sunday, said deputy commandant (operation), coast guard, Paradip, V. Vijay.

Five coast guard ships and four Dornier aircraft choreographed manoeuvres including anti-piracy and anti-smuggling drill. They also displayed their prowess in surface firing.

A live demonstration of light-weapon firing and other technical operations were displayed and the audience were told about the coast guard’s missions on the high seas. It also showcased how the force’s capabilities in defending India’s maritime interests.

“The exercise was held to make people aware of the coastal security mechanism. The audience got to know about surveillance, detection and identification of enemy forces, communication network, security measures and rescue missions. The people were familiarised with the standard operating procedures of the sea-route security mechanism,” said a coast guard personnel.

“It was the experience of a lifetime. We loved the manoeuvres of aircraft and warships,” said Monalisa Mohapatra, a homemaker.

Text by Manoj Kar
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