Coastal Surveillance Intensified in South 24 Parganas Despite Ceasefire Between India and Pakistan

Baby Chakraborty, KalimNews, South 24 Parganas, May 12, 2025 : Despite the announcement of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan effective from the evening of May 10, heightened security measures continue to remain in place across various sensitive regions, including the Sundarbans in South 24 Parganas. While the immediate threat of military confrontation has eased, authorities remain on high alert, especially in the North and North-West frontier areas.

Amidst the ongoing ceasefire, enhanced vigilance has been observed in the waterways and coastal zones of the Sundarbans. In response to the tense geopolitical environment, joint patrol operations are being conducted by the Fraserganj police station and the Indian Coast Guard as part of Operation ‘Raksha Orange’. Surveillance activities are being carried out across rivers, estuaries, ferry piers, and key sea routes using the Fast Interceptor Boats (FIBs) stationed at Fraserganj.

Security forces have been instructed to interrogate any suspicious vessels or watercraft sighted in the region. All coastal police stations within the Sundarbans have been placed on high alert. Stretching over approximately 150 kilometers, the water boundary of the Sundarbans poses a potential risk for infiltration, prompting extensive deployment of BSF personnel along the riverine and forested zones.

The Indian Coast Guard is maintaining watch from floating border outposts in the Bay of Bengal, employing advanced surveillance tools including drones, sensors, fixed and mobile cameras, and night vision equipment. Regular round-the-clock patrolling is being carried out by both the Coast Guard and state police forces, especially in vulnerable stretches of the river and coastline.

In adherence to ongoing security protocols, a complete ban on fishing activities in rivers and the sea has been imposed. Fishermen have been instructed to refrain from using watercraft, and any vessel found operating is being thoroughly inspected.

The developments in South 24 Parganas are a part of the broader national preparedness, reflecting the unresolved tensions that persist despite diplomatic moves toward de-escalation.