Udupi, August 22 - The Coast Guard Police in Udupi has outlined plans to adopt the Central Government's Vibrant Village Program, mirroring its success in Arunachal Pradesh, to ensure the development of villages situated along the coastal border of Karnataka. This initiative is designed to curb migration from these border villages while providing essential infrastructure. Superintendent of Police Abdul Ahad of the Karnataka Coastal Security Police shared these insights during an interactive session organized by the Udupi Press Club Committee on Tuesday.

SP Abdul Ahad stated that a comprehensive report on the villages along the coastal border has been submitted to the Central Government for review and potential implementation. Drawing parallels with the Vibrant Village Program successfully employed in Arunachal Pradesh, he expressed optimism about its positive impact on the coastal border villages in Karnataka.

Addressing concerns about narcotics trafficking at sea, SP Abdul Ahad revealed that such incidents are rare within their jurisdiction due to the high costs associated with sea-based transportation of contraband. He added that Coast Security Police remain vigilant nonetheless.

Acknowledging the crucial role of fishermen in maintaining maritime security, SP Abdul Ahad praised the local fishing community for their cooperation and proactive reporting of suspicious activities. He highlighted the strong partnership between the fishermen and the police department, aided by wireless communication and vigilance.

Speaking on the issue of narcotics, SP Abdul Ahad emphasized the collective responsibility to combat its menace. He reported the registration of several cases related to the sale and consumption of narcotics on beaches, asserting that strict actions have been taken against the culprits.

Regarding security measures, SP Abdul Ahad detailed the installation of over 500 CCTV cameras across the coastal region from Karwar to Mangalore, with significant support from public participation. He underlined the significance of coastal security and its link to tourism, illustrating the increased focus on information gathering about foreigners staying at resorts.

SP Abdul Ahad also noted ongoing discussions at the government level regarding the necessity of a Sea Ambulance for the Karnataka coast. Plans for a Coastal Security Training Center, Hospital, Jetty, and Solar Power initiatives at various locations are in progress. The department is gradually strengthening its capacity with additional drones and boats, he added.

The Udupi District Working Journalists Association President Rajesh Shetty Alevuru and General Secretary Nazir Polya were among the attendees. The event was hosted at the Udupi Press Bhavan Committee with Convener Ajith Aradi extending the welcome and Co-convenor Ankit Shetty delivering the vote of thanks. Journalist Deepak Jain moderated the program.

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Kolkata (PTI): A student of the state-run Aliah University in New Town near Kolkata was found dead in his hostel room, police said on Tuesday.

The body of Abdul Rahman (24), a resident of Malda, was found hanging from the ceiling in his hostel room around 7 pm on Monday, they said.

Rahman's classmates found the body when they entered his room after getting no response to repeated knocks on the doors. They then informed the police.

Officers of the Techno City police station went to the spot and sent the body to hospital for post-mortem examination, an official said.

An investigation has been started, they said, adding that the exact cause of the death will be known after the post-morterm examination.