Twelve years since 26/11 terror attacks of 2008, Mumbai’s security apparatus has seen a sea change with Indian Coast Guard standing out as one of the key maritime security agencies. From a meagre 74 vessel to patrol the 7,500 kilometre coastline of India, the force is on its way to become a 200-vessel strong force.

In 2017, the Centre approved a Rs31,748-crore, five-year programme to add to the Coast Guard’s resources. “This has seen the Coast Guard fleet of vessels grow 134 ships which are operational. Fifty seven ships are at various stages of construction at different Indian shipyards. The air wing too has increased from 44 aircraft in 2008 to 58,” said a spokesperson from Indian Coast Guard.

It has also added another air station at Ratnagiri to effectively patrol the sea. “The air station at Ratnagiri is operational and is likely to be commissioned soon,” said the spokesperson.