Sri Vijaya Puram, May 20: The Fishermen Watch Group (FWG) meetings were organized by A & N Police across the A & N Islands, in coordination with Coastal Security stakeholder including the Coast Guard, Fisheries Department, Forest Department and Sagar Mitras etc.. The meetings were conducted with the objective of strengthening coastal security awareness and enhancing coordination with the fishing community, who serve as the “eyes and ears” of coastal surveillance.
During the meetings, fishermen were sensitized about the importance of proper registration and documentation of fishing dinghies and were advised to carry all necessary documents and safety articles while venturing into the sea. They were also encouraged to promptly share credible information regarding any illegal or suspicious activities with PMF and local Police Stations.
The fishermen were reminded to make use of the toll-free coastal security helpline number 1093 and landline 03192-239247/231737/245577 for reporting emergencies and suspicious movements at sea. Emphasis was laid on the mandatory use of safety equipment such as life jackets, life buoys and Distress Alert Transmitters (DATs) onboard all dinghies.
Further, training & guidance was imparted on life-saving techniques and general safety measures to be followed while at sea and the meetings also provided an interactive platform for fishermen to raise their grievances, complaints and concerns before the concerned authorities.
In addition, pre and post-exercise meetings in connection with the Coastal Security Exercise “Sagar Kavach – SKV Blue-01/26” were also conducted successfully with the aim of strengthening coastal security preparedness and inter-agency coordination across the islands.
The A & N Police reaffirmed its commitment towards ensuring coastal security and safety through active participation and cooperation of the fishing community.