‘Theeravetta’ Takes a Penetrating Look into Coastal Security.

published on June 1, 2014

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Going one step further in identifying the chinks in coastal security along the Kerala and Lakshadweep coast, ‘Theeravetta’, the recently-concluded two-day joint coastal security exercise, has explored the second and third layers of security threats along the coast.

The second edition of Theeravetta, the periodic coastal security drill, was able to shed light into the crucial aspects of security measures, said officials.

 The coastal security agencies including the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, Coastal Police, Marine Enforcement along with Departments of Customs, Shipping, Ports and intelligence agencies have been carrying out periodic coastal security drills for the past few years after 26/11.

The drills are largely aimed at bridging the gaps in coastal security network, as well as to identify the specific sectors which are to be strengthened.

 ‘’This time, we went a step further to identity the second and third layer of threat perception. As usual the exercise was carried out with the total team divided into the red and blue forces – the attacking and defending teams. However, this time infiltration by the red forces was more  stronger, further penetrating into the security layers. The attempt was to identify the next level of threats and security measures,’’ said sources.

 The first edition of ‘Theeravetta’ was launched last October as part of an attempt to rope in more coastal communities and ensure the involvement of Kadalora Jagratha Samithis.

The state has been getting periodic alerts from the Centre. The alerts are followed up based on their nature and responded as per the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).

 The nearly 600-km-long Kerala coastline saw increased surveillance following the Mumbai terror attack in 2008.

The frequent coastal security drills have identified the weak points in security. Chinks in coastal security were exposed during Gemini-II, second edition of the coastal security drill for Kerala and Lakshadweep islands, coordinated by the Joint Operations Centre (JOC) in Kochi last year.

 It was as part of a decision to ensure involvement of the fisherfolk that the format of the drill was modified.

Read More :http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/Theeravetta-Takes-a-Penetrating-Look-into-Coastal-Security/2014/05/31/article2255218.ece