Defence Secretary’s Visit to Indian Coast Guard North-West Region
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Charting the Course: Briefing on Upcoming ICG Jetty Construction
The Defence Secretary of the Government of India, Shri Giridhar Aramane, embarked on a significant visit to inspect the Indian Coast Guard facilities within the North West Region on March 28-29, 2024. His visit aimed to assess and inaugurate various infrastructural developments vital for the maritime security of the region.
Inauguration of Hovercraft Maintenance Unit (HMU)
Shri Giridhar Aramane inaugurated the Hovercraft Maintenance Unit (HMU) infrastructure at Okha. This facility holds immense importance as it ensures the timely technical support, maintenance, and upkeep of hovercrafts stationed at Okha and Jakhau. These hovercrafts play a crucial role in surveillance across 50 islands within the Area of Responsibility (AoR) and the Gulf of Kutch, navigating through shallow waters and marshy terrains along the Gujarat coastline.
The HMU facilities include designated areas for ACV parking, office spaces, workshops, and maintenance areas. This setup guarantees optimal operational availability of hovercrafts, ensuring they remain in a state of readiness to address any operational requirements efficiently.
Inauguration of Coast Guard OTM and Married Accommodation
Continuing the momentum of infrastructural development, on the 29th of March 2024, Mrs. Gayatri Aramane inaugurated the Coast Guard OTM and Married Accommodation at Inaz Village, Veraval. This development includes 60 units of married accommodations, an all-weather helipad, living quarters for subordinate officers and Naviks, a parade ground, and a mess facility. The presence of an operational helipad significantly enhances the strategic capabilities of operations in Veraval, especially during maritime emergencies, search and rescue missions, and surveillance activities.
Briefing on Upcoming ICG Jetty Construction Work
During his visit, the Defence Secretary received a comprehensive briefing on the upcoming construction of a 200-meter Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Jetty at Okha. This project underscores the government’s commitment to equipping the Indian Coast Guard with advanced facilities to enhance their operational capabilities.
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Strategic Significance of ICG Regional Headquarters
Established on December 16, 2009, at Gandhinagar, the ICG Regional Headquarters (North West) plays a pivotal role in executing the mandated charter of the Indian Coast Guard within maritime zones encompassing Gujarat, Daman, and Diu. Given Gujarat’s proximity to the national International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) with Pakistan, the role of the ICG in safeguarding maritime interests in this region is paramount.
Infrastructure Development Initiatives
The recent inauguration of the jetty at Vadinar is just one of the many infrastructural development initiatives undertaken by the Indian Coast Guard. Additional projects include the construction of a 100-meter jetty extension at Porbandar, a 125-meter jetty at Mundrain, and the aforementioned 200-meter jetty at Okha. These developments align with the government’s vision to equip the Indian Coast Guard with state-of-the-art infrastructure for operating advanced surface and air platforms.
Dignitaries and Witnesses
The events surrounding the infrastructural developments were attended by various dignitaries from both Central and State governments. Notable personalities present included Director General Rakesh Pal, AVSM, PTM, TM, Director General Indian Coast Guard, and Inspector General AK Harbola, TM, Commander Coast Guard Region (NW).
