The Maharashtra government has introduced an enforcement cell as part of its plan to enhance coastal security and curb unauthorised fishing, especially by vessels from outside the state. Nitesh Rane, minister for fisheries and ports, on Tuesday, revealed that his department had formed the cell to act against illegal activities along the state’s coastline. “The cell will work to address the issues of local fishermen. It will also help maintain vigilance and enhance security along the coast of Maharashtra,” Rane said during an interaction with the media at his Mantralaya office.

The state government has already started surveillance of the coast using drones. Besides technology-driven methods to keep a check on illegal fishing by trawlers from neighbouring states such as Karnataka, Gujarat and Goa, the department now plans to keep vigil through the newly set up cell. The minister further emphasised the need to protect the livelihoods of traditional fishermen. “The newly formed cell will be responsible for 24-hour marine patrolling and stringent implementation of maritime rules and regulations,” Rane added. Maharashtra has a 720 km long indented coastline, popularly known as the Konkan coast.