Why Has Gujarat Increased Security and Surveillance in Coastlines and Borders?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
With rising tensions following military actions in neighboring regions, Gujarat has ramped up its security measures. This article explores the extensive preparations being undertaken across the state to ensure citizen safety and emergency readiness, highlighting the efforts of various agencies and the significance of mock drills in crisis management.
Key Takeaways
- Heightened security measures are in effect across Gujarat.
- Extensive surveillance operations are active in coastal and border areas.
- Mock drills are being conducted to enhance emergency preparedness.
- Key urban centers are under increased watch.
- All flights to and from affected cities have been suspended.
Gandhinagar, May 7 (NationPress) A heightened security alert has been put in place across multiple states as Gujarat ramps up its security preparedness following the Indian Armed Forces' early morning airstrikes on nine terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir during "Operation Sindoor", according to official sources.
Security agencies in coastal and border regions, especially in Jamnagar, have initiated thorough checking and surveillance operations. The Special Operations Group (SOG), Marine Police, and Task Force commandos are actively patrolling sensitive coastal areas, including Halar beach, which is notably close to the Pakistan border.
In accordance with directives from the Central government, a comprehensive Civil Defence mock drill was executed throughout Gujarat.
Gujarat's Chief Secretary, Pankaj Joshi, oversaw the exercise via a virtual monitoring session conducted at the State Emergency Operation Centre (SEOC) in Gandhinagar.
The mock drill was designed to evaluate the readiness of various districts in dealing with potential emergencies and to enhance inter-agency collaboration.
During the virtual review, senior officials, including Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department Dr. Jayanti Ravi, Director General of Civil Defence Manoj Agarwal, Transport Commissioner Anupam Anand, and Relief Commissioner Alok Kumar Pandey, were present.
The statewide drill involved simulated scenarios to test the efficiency of disaster response mechanisms, communication networks, and civil protection infrastructure.
Authorities stressed the significance of such exercises to ensure Gujarat is equipped to manage crises swiftly and effectively.
As a result of the increased alert, all flights to and from major cities including Jamnagar, Bhuj, Rajkot, Jodhpur, and Amritsar have been suspended.
Jamnagar Airport has enforced strict security protocols under the oversight of district police, with teams inspecting vehicles and questioning drivers. Flights between Jamnagar and Mumbai will be grounded for the next three days.
In light of these developments, Amit Arora, Joint Administrative Manager of the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam and CEO of the Statue of Unity, led a review meeting to evaluate the security system's readiness at the Narmada Dam.
He instructed officials to maintain uninterrupted power and communication lines while ensuring backup systems are prepared for any emergencies.
The State Reserve Force located in Ekta Nagar continues its 24x7 monitoring of the dam and its vicinity.
Mock drills are also being carried out statewide to prepare for emergency situations.
In Jamnagar, the Fire Department is coordinating drills across four city zones with participation from over 100 personnel and 30 fire engines.
Chief Fire Officer K.K. Bishnoi conducted a detailed pre-briefing for station officers to ensure preparedness for any potential disasters stemming from rising tensions.
The Jamnagar district police, led by SP Premsukh Delu, also conducted a thorough review with senior law enforcement officials, focusing on maintaining law and order and inter-departmental coordination.
Meanwhile, the state government, in partnership with central agencies, has strengthened surveillance and readiness measures to stave off any potential threats.
Key urban centers, including Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Surat, and Vadodara, are under heightened scrutiny, with additional deployments of police forces and paramilitary units in sensitive areas.
High-traffic public venues such as railway stations, airports, religious sites, and major stadiums – including the Narendra Modi Stadium – are undergoing regular patrols and intensified security checks.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize that while the government's heightened security measures in Gujarat are a response to external threats, they also reflect a commitment to maintaining public safety and order. These proactive steps, including extensive drills and increased surveillance, demonstrate the state's dedication to readiness and resilience in uncertain times.
NationPress
22/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the heightened security alert in Gujarat?
The increased security alert in Gujarat was prompted by the Indian Armed Forces' pre-dawn airstrikes on terror hideouts in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
What measures are being taken to ensure public safety?
Security agencies are conducting extensive surveillance and checking operations, deploying special task forces, and conducting mock drills to enhance preparedness for emergencies.
Which areas in Gujarat are under increased surveillance?
Coastal regions, border areas, major urban centers like Ahmedabad and Surat, and critical public spaces such as airports and railway stations are under heightened surveillance.
How long will flights to and from Jamnagar be suspended?
Flights between Jamnagar and Mumbai will remain suspended for the next three days due to heightened security measures.
What role do mock drills play in this situation?
Mock drills are crucial for assessing emergency response capabilities and ensuring inter-agency coordination during potential crises.
