’50% of terror alerts are fake’

Almost a year ago, 10 terrorists armed with sophisticated weapons entered Mumbai via sea and killed over 190 people. Ahead of fresh alerts of a seaborne attack, Indian Coast Guard Director General Anil Chopra tells J Dey his men are prepared.

'50% of terror alerts are fake'

Is there a fresh terror alert for Mumbai?
Yes, there are intelligence reports, but I can't give details.

Have you initiated action?
We are prepared after every intelligence input. However, half the time, the inputs are not true.

Any changes in the Coast Guard a year after the terror attacks?
We have incorporated many changes to improve maritime security. The government has sanctioned a 33 per cent increase in the Coast Guard strength, ships and aircraft.

Ever Ready: Coast Guard Director General Anil Chopra

There is going to be a significant increase in manpower. Also, about 50 ships will be added in the next three years and over a 100 ships in a decade, making it the world's third largest Coast Guard after US and Canada.

Are you satisfied with the ships?
The ships we've acquired are sufficiently equipped to deal with any situation.

Are fishermen helping you after 26/11?
The fishing community is working in tandem with the Coast Guard, Navy, Coastal Police and other agencies.

The government is providing them with identity cards, which will go a long way in beefing up coastal security.

Is the Coast Guard or Navy in touch with their Pakistani counterparts?
We hold meetings regularly.

Is there a problem in procuring land for five Coast Guard stations in and around Mumbai?
It is not easy to procure land. It will take some time before the projects take off.

40
The approximate number of Coast Guard and Naval ships patrolling the coastal area from Mandvi port in the north to Goa

12
The number of patrol ships with sophisticated navigation systems and state-of-the-art weaponry to be imported every year

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