Mumbai:
Maritime forces have enhanced security measures for the World Cup final to be played between India and Sri Lanka. India beat Pakistan to enter the final to be played on April 2.
Here is a statement issued by Capt M Nambiar, Chief PRO (Defence), Mumbai, in regard to security measures being put in place:
Coastal Security along the West Coast has been stepped up since early March in the run up to the ICC World Cup finals scheduled on 02 April at Mumbai. The Indian Navy in conjunction with the Indian Coast Guard, Marine Police and other players of the Coastal Security network has accordingly heightened its state of alert and its ships and aircraft are on continuous patrol off the coasts of Gujarat and Maharashtra.
In consonance with prevailing operating philosophy, IN and ICG ships, Fast Attack Craft (FAC), Patrol vessels and Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC) have been deployed in layered defence to interdict terrorists attempting to land on our shores using the sea route. Security has also been beefed up ashore with additional check points and manning of boat landing areas. Coastal villages have been sensitised to report any untoward incident. Fishermen are actively contributing to the security setup by acting as the 'eyes-and-ears' of security agencies. Further, sufficient number of our elite Marine Commandos (MARCOS), adequately supported by helicopters, is standing-by to attend to any eventuality, whether at sea or ashore.
In addition to coastal security, the Indian navy has also enhanced its surveillance and patrolling in and around the Offshore Development Area.