Odisha Police Strengthens Coastal Security Through Community Policing

These initiatives aim to ensure peace, protect lives and property, and reinforce police–public relations in sensitive coastal regions.

In recent days, marine police stations across the state have conducted extensive awareness drives involving local residents, fishermen, students, youth groups, and women self-help groups. The programmes cover diverse issues such as safety awareness, protection of women and children, cybercrime prevention, youth empowerment, and coastal security.

Additionally, police teams have sensitised communities about the dangers of drug abuse, the need to stay away from anti-social activities, and the importance of reporting suspicious movements along the coast. Awareness campaigns also highlight threats such as illegal infiltration, narcotics smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorism-related activities.

Marine police officers are working in close coordination with the Indian Coast Guard to expand the reach of these programmes. They maintain regular contact with fishermen and coastal residents to exchange information and strengthen security arrangements. Police teams are visiting villages, gathering public feedback, and actively helping resolve local social issues.

Through community policing, Odisha Police expects stronger cooperation between citizens and law enforcement, improved peace and order, and enhanced coastal safety.

Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania stated that community policing acts as a “bridge of trust” between police and the public. He expressed confidence that with greater public participation, crime rates will decline and peace will prevail across society.

So far, Odisha Police has organised 303 community policing programmes across 18 marine police stations, and officials confirmed that the initiative will continue in the coming days.