New Delhi: In order to strengthen coastal security in Kerala, the Centre has approved over Rs 40 crore to set up coastal police stations and for purchase of modern vessels and vehicles.
According to a Home Ministry data, an amount of Rs 1.97 crore has been approved for establishing eight coastal police stations in the southern state.
The state will be getting 24 vessels -- Sixteen 12-ton and eight 5-ton -- at a total cost of Rs 40 crore, it said.
The state will also be purchasing 16 jeeps and 24 motor cycles for closer surveillance at a total outlay of Rs 0.78 crore, it added.
"We have already approved a lump-sum amount of Rs 80 lakh for eight police stations at ten lakh per station," a senior Ministry official said.
Stating that the Home Ministry is continuously devising ways to strengthen coastal security, especially after the Mumbai attacks, the official said, "Government is also considering proposals submitted by the state government to augment coastal strength."
The Centre has formulated comprehensive security schemes for nine coastal states, including Kerala, and four union territories.
The Government has also stepped up vigil along 7,516-km long coastline which has 12 major and 180 minor ports.
