Sethu project to risk security: Coast Guard

Controversies over the Sethu project acquired a new dimension with Coast Guard saying ‘security issues are bound to rise.’

Controversies surrounding the ambitious Sethusamudram project acquired a new dimension with the Coast Guard saying ‘security issues are bound to rise’ in its wake.

A week after Naval Chief Suresh Mehta said the project may be unviable for big ships, Coast Guard Director General R F Contractor told a press conference that “when something big is happening in that area like all along the coastline ships are transiting…, so there are security threats.”

He said, “there will be security issues that are bound to rise. It is a maritime area, a sea, same sea. The water is same but by virtue of close boundary lines between Sri Lanka and us, obviously the implications are more there.”

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Contractor said because it was a maritime issue, the Government has taken the views of the Coast Guard and Navy.

“Projects like the Sethusamudram could bring in more security problems… The small waterway could prove a security risk,” the Coast Guard DG said.

The Admiral added that adequate protective measures would be put in place once the project is operational.

“Like other channels worldover, a protective ring can be set up to meet such threats,” Contractor said referring to Panama Canal, Malacca straits as well Suez Canal.

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The project is already surrounded by a controversy as BJP and other Hindu groups are opposed to it and the matter is now before the Supreme Court.

As part of new measures to ward off terror threats coming from sea, piracy in international waters and sea-jackings, Contractor said proposals have been mooted for acquisition of six multi-mission maritime surveillance aircraft.