All vessels to be registered to boost coastal security

The Shipping Department will be the nodal agency to bring all the Indian vessels under a "single registration regime" and ensure that they are equipped with communication devices in order to boost coastal security.

The Shipping Department will be the nodal agency to bring all the Indian vessels under a "single registration regime" and ensure that they are equipped with communication devices in order to boost coastal security.

HT Image

The initiative came from the Centre after concerns were raised over the vulnerability of boats plying in Indian
waters, official sources said.

The move is an attempt to avoid repeat of the M V Kuber like incident in which terrorists had overpowered the fishing
trawler to reach Mumbai before launching 26/11 terror attack that claimed 166 lives.

"It has been decided that all type of vessels whether fishing or non-fishing be registered under a single
registration regime," they said.

To further boost the security of Indian boats, it has been decided to equip them with the navigational and
communication equipments so that they can approach coastal security agencies in case of emergency.

These equipment will also help the security agencies to keep a track of boats and also regulate and monitor their
movements in case of any distress call made from the vessels.

"Department of Shipping has been designated as the Nodal department in respect of these two matters and it is
accordingly taking adequate steps in this regard," a senior Home Ministry Official said.