Mangaluru: The Coast Guard Karnataka celebrated its 42nd Raising Day on February 1 at its Mangalore headquarters with a ceremonial function. The chief guest for the event was B A Mohiuddin Bava, MLA, North Mangalore. The event was graced by various dignitaries.

During the event, a traditional cultural programme consisting of five classical dances depicting various Indian historical moments was showcased. Thereafter, a cake cutting ceremony was performed by Mohiuddin Bava, Deputy Inspector General S S Dasila, TM, Commander, Coast Guard Karnataka and junior-most officer present, Assistant Commandant Neha Barange.

Bava lauded the Coast Guard ceremony and expressed his whole-hearted support to the service in its future endeavours.

Karnataka has a coastline of 320 Kms and is in close proximity to the Lakshadweep and Minicoy Islands. Presence of international merchant traffic in sea-lanes of communication, diversified maritime community and fishermen warrant continuous alertness. Coast Guard Karnataka has taken considerable steps to safeguard the state’s maritime borders. One advance offshore patrol vessel Shoor, 4 Fast Patrol Vessels, 2 Hovercraft, Coast Guard Air Enclave Mangalore, 2 Interceptor Boats and 2 Interceptor Craft are engaged in the safety and security of coastal Karnataka.

Coast Guard Karnataka is persistently teaming up with other stake-holders like Indian Navy, Coastal Security Police, State Police, state and district administrations, Customs, New Mangalore Port Trust, Karwar Port, Old Mangalore Port, CISF, industrial units etc., for inter-agency support, exercises and information sharing. The connection with coastal populace and fishermen of Karnataka has built mutual confidence. The fishing community has also been reciprocating as “eyes and ears” for Coast Guard at sea by providing inputs.

The “Service before Self” attitude of Coast Guard Karnataka has resulted in saving 202 lives in 10 search and rescue operations and 3 medical evacuations during the year 2017 till date. During Cyclone Ockhi, Coast Guard Karnataka was actively involved in the search and rescue efforts and saved 89 fishermen in distress. There was no loss of life in Karnataka.

During the address to officers and men, Dasila stated, “The professionalism, infallible attitude and patriotism shown by all of us has resulted in overcoming daunting and challenging tasks at sea that resulted in saving precious lives. We must maintain sharp vigilance to thwart threats.”

Coast Guard Karnataka takes pride in ensuring safer seas along Karnataka coast and re-dedicates itself in the service to the people of Karnataka.