Indian Coast Guard base in Ratnagiri to be launched today

NEW DELHI (PTI): Enhancing the coastal security network in Maharashtra, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will commission its base in Ratnagiri on Saturday.

"The station would play an effective role in undertaking joint coastal patrol along with the state police, Customs and Fisheries Department to thwart maritime security threats," Defence Ministry officials said here.

The station will be commissioned by Coast Guard Chief Vice Admiral Anil Chopra and will be commanded by Commandant B H Kumbhare.

One more Coast Guard station at Dahanu in Maharashtra has been planned in this year for commission.

A plan to set up a Coast Guard Air Station at Ratnagiri is also on the anvil. This will be the first full-fledged ICG air station in Maharashtra.

"The air station will play a crucial role in maritime surveillance and Search and Rescue and adjoining coast of Maharashtra.