In the coming months when you sit on the shores of the Marina Beach enjoying the waves, do not be taken aback if speed boats cut past the waves and then swerve around to make another dash. They will be part of the crew of the first and only Marine police station for the city.
The station is situated on the banks of the Cooum River near the Napier Bridge and will keep a check on terrorism, smuggling and human trafficking.
“Chennai houses many dignitaries and there are many important buildings. Hence it is important to have a station in the city. Besides, after the Mumbai attack it has become all the more important to secure the coastline,” said C. Sylendra Babu, Additional Director-General of Police, Coastal Security Group.
ADVERTISEMENT
In the first phase, 12 marine stations were started across the State and in the second phase 30 were announced by the Chief Minister. “Out of this only one has been sanctioned for Chennai,” said a senior police officer. Marine stations will also be coming up in Kovalam, Mudaliar Kuppam, Sadras and three places in Tiruvallur district.
The coastal police stations will have jurisdiction of 12 nautical miles (24 km) from the low tide zone. “We will be getting around 20 interceptor boats. As of now we have some speed boats stationed at the Chennai harbour, added the officer.
The Coastal Security Group has also prepared a team of marine commandos who have been trained to handle emergency situations in all terrains. “They have undergone training in mountain climbing, swimming and weapons. They are at present undergoing a session on scuba diving in Tuticorin. Soon, they will learn sailing too,” added Sylendra Babu.
ADVERTISEMENT
Home guards
Meanwhile, around 50 fishermen residing along the city’s coastline will be recruited as home guards. “They will also be trained. As of now many of them are giving us vital information and tipping us in case they see any suspicious vessel,” a senior officer added.
The station is situated on the banks of the Cooum River near the Napier Bridge