Maharashtra Tightens Coastal Security; Focus On Ports, Ferries And Illegal Workers After Pahalgam Terror Attack

In the wake of the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, Maharashtra’s Minister for Fisheries and Ports, Nitesh Rane, has ordered a comprehensive tightening of maritime security across the state. A high-level review meeting was convened to evaluate current security protocols at all ports, jetties, and maritime infrastructure managed by the Maharashtra Maritime Board.

During the meeting, Minister Rane directed the Marine Security Forces and Maharashtra Police to carry out extensive verification and investigation operations. This includes all personnel working in or around maritime zones, including laborers, ferry staff, boat operators, and those involved in fishing activities.

The directives include the following measures:

• Intensive search and combing operations at all major maritime sites.

• Mandatory verification of identification documents such as Aadhaar cards and official worker ID cards.

• Special security focus on high-density zones like Sassoon Dock, where all workers will be subjected to thorough checks.

Additionally, Rane has mandated that all workers along the coastline and at ports must possess valid police verification certificates and carry proper identification while on duty. Urgent notifications outlining these new security protocols are being circulated to all relevant departments and enforcement bodies.

Raising further concern, the CEO of the Maharashtra Maritime Board informed the Ministry about a significant presence of unauthorized Bangladeshi nationals reportedly employed in ferry services operating between Gateway of India–Alibaug and Gateway of India–Elephanta. Given the sensitivity of these areas, Rane instructed the Inspector General of Marine Security, the Inspector General of Police (Konkan Region), and the Maharashtra Maritime Board to launch immediate joint inspections and verification drives.

These measures are part of a broader strategy to bolster Maharashtra’s coastal security and ensure preparedness against potential threats.