The Coastal Security scheme is a scheme commenced in 2005-06. The scheme got impetus after November 26, 2008 attack in Mumbai by terrorists who landed in South Mumbai on the Arabian sea coast. The scheme aims at enhancing coastal vigilance by strengthening infrastructure for patrolling and surveillance of the West Bengal coast line upto 5 NM by State Marine Police. The Coastline of the state stretches upto 157.5 K.M. In West Bengal, the major areas covered under the coastal security scheme are along the International Maritime Boundary Line with Bangladesh
a) 14 Coastal Police Stations (CPs) have been created in Phase-I & Phase-II. b) Fast Interceptor Boats- Used for patrolling in Coastal Areas up to 05 NM covering 14 CPSs. c) Flat Bottom Vessels- Used for patrolling in narrow creeks in Sunderban area d) All TerrainVehicles- Used for beach patrolling e) Water Scooter (Jet Ski)- used for rescue of victims along the beaches.
1. Coastal Police Stations will be engaged in policing the territorial waters with a view to enforce criminal laws of the country protecting national interest in such water and providing a sense of security to the inhabitant and other stakeholders in the coastal areas. 2. Search and Seizure in respect of suspected trawlers, vessels to prevent any unlawful activities. 3. Investigating criminal cases registered either by Marine Police Station or being handed over by Navy, Customs, Indian Coast Guard etc. 4. To develop and collect intelligence through fishermen community regarding unauthorized entry of vessels and persons in territorial waters. 5. To keeps surveillance over the villages, Jetties, Creeks, Landing Points etc. 6. To coordinate with stakeholders like BSF, Customs, Navy, Coast Guard etc. 7. To organize search, salvage and rescue operation of fishermen and others in distress in territorial waters. 8. Ensuring safety and security of uninhabited islands
a) Digital Coastal Map (Atlas) has been implemented in the state in association with Indian Space Research Organization, Kolkata covering all vulnerable areas and vulnerable points. b) The State has introduced Common Communication System by allotting VHF sets with a new frequency to Indian Coast Guard , Indian Navy , BSF, Forest and State Marine Police for joint patrolling and joint operation. c) Joint patrolling is being carried out by State Marine Police together with Coast Guard regularly in coastal areas of the state.