CAG strictures against Modi govt over coastal security set-up

AHMEDABAD: The Comptroller and Auditor General ( CAG) has found several flaws in the implementation of Coastal Security Scheme ( CSC) in Gujarat, which shares maritime border with Pakistan.

A performance audit report by CAG -- tabled in the recent session of the state Assembly -- points out that "due to its sea route proximity with Pakistan, it (Gujarat) holds very high strategic importance from perspective of internal security of the country".

However, the planned security measures are not being implemented to the full extent, the report indicates. "Shortfall in sea patrolling has been pegged at between 78 per cent and 91 per cent while night patrolling ranges from zero to 34 per cent of the prescribed frequency," it says.

"The locations of four Coastal Police Stations out of the total 10 were changed for geographical and administrative convenience rather than...security perception."

Some of the locations identified for setting up coastal check-posts (CCPs) and coastal outposts (COPs) were water-logged, so the actual posts were constructed further inland at six places in Ahmedabad and Banaskantha districts.

"Out of the 50 CCPs and COPs completed, 36 remained non-operational as police personnel were not deployed."

Further, no dedicated jetties were built for maintaining secrecy of marine security operations, as the state didn't approach the Centre in this regard, CAG says.