Security tightened at Gujarat ports after intelligence alert

GANDHINAGAR: Security has been tightened at all ports along Gujarat’s 1,600-km-long coastline following intelligence reports of a possible infiltration attempt by terrorists through the sea route.

“We have received some input in this regard and accordingly alerted all the ports,” Mukesh Kumar, vice chairman of Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), told ET. Kumar, who is also GMB’s chief executive, said that security at the ports was earlier being provided by private agencies, but now it is under the State Reserve Police.

On Tuesday, Kandla and Mundra ports had issued a “very high” alert, stating that “as per intelligence input received, Pakistan-trained commandos have entered Gulf of Kutch/ Kutch through Harami Nala creek Area. They are believed to be trained in underwater attacks. It is therefore directed to take utmost measures of security and prevent any untoward situation. In Gujarat state, all ships at dpt. to take utmost security measures and maintain anti-terror watch and be alert”.


Last Saturday, the BSF found two abandoned single-engine boats in the Harami Nala area of Kutch. While such discoveries are routine in the area, which is otherwise rich in fish and is a favourite fishing spot for Indian and Pakistani fishermen, the matter assumes significance in view of the tension between India and Pakistan.

Recently, navy chief Admiral Karambir Singh had said that an underwater wing of Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed is training people to launch an attack in India.