Port Blair, Mar 02: Indian Coast Guard regularly conducts Community Interaction with fishing community as fishermen being eyes and ears of Coast Guard, play an important role in coastal security mechanism. In order to strengthen the bond with fishing community, Coast Guard units conducted the community interaction with fishing community at Haddo and Junglighat on 27 and 28 Feb 20. During the interaction, a large number of fishermen alongwith representatives from fisheries department were present. During the course of conduct, the Officers from Indian Coast Guard informed the gathering about Search and Rescue set up in India, especially in Port Blair and explained various precautionary measures to be followed while venturing out for fishing. The fisher-folks were told on effective usage of SAR toll free number 1554. Theoretical briefing followed by practical demonstration of Safety Equipment was also carried out. The fishermen were also briefed about carrying of life saving gears such as life jackets, life buoys etc.
The local fishermen were requested to co-operate with Coast Guard & PMF during verification of documents at sea. They were also made aware of their role in coastal security and were urged to report any suspicious activity happening around in their areas. They were assured that prompt action will be initiated on receipt of any vital information. Fishermen were also directed to carry proper Identity cards and display Indian flag for positive identification by security forces at all times. The community was also apprised on importance of carrying DAT onboard as the same is now made mandatory for all types of fishing crafts. The fisheries department briefed the gathering on renewal process of licenses which will commence w.e.f 01 Apr 20.
At the end of the CIP, the fishermen expressed their commitment for extending all assistance as necessary for strengthening of coastal security mechanism. ‘Such interactions not only enlighten the fishermen on safety aspects at sea but also helps in establishing strong bonding with the community’, a communiqué received from CG PRO.
