Coastal Security Exercise ‘Sagar Kavach’ Begins in Tamil Nadu’s Central Zone

A two-day coastal security exercise named ‘Sagar Kavach’ commenced on Thursday in five coastal districts of Tamil Nadu’s central zone: Pudukottai, Thanjavur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, and Tiruvarur. The drill involves multiple agencies, including the Coastal Security Group, district police, Indian Coast Guard, and Indian Navy.

The annual exercise aims to assess the preparedness and alertness of stakeholders involved in coastal security. It is designed to prevent intrusions, particularly by terrorists, through sea routes. Personnel from the Coastal Security Group, respective district police, Indian Coast Guard, Indian Navy, and other agencies are participating in the drill.

From dawn on Thursday, surveillance was intensified across the coastal districts. Vehicle checks were stepped up in coastal areas by district police and Coastal Security Group personnel. The Coastal Security Group deployed fast interceptor boats and hired vessels from local fishermen to enhance patrolling at sea.

Fishermen were informed about the exercise and asked to report any suspicious movements in their villages. During the exercise, security personnel disguised as “terrorists” were intercepted and “secured” by the Coastal Security Group in the sea off Velankanni, Akkaraipettai, and Keechankuppam villages in Nagapattinam district.

The 48-hour exercise will conclude on Friday, according to Coastal Security Group sources. Such drills are part of routine measures to strengthen coastal security and ensure quick responses to potential threats.