Odisha Ramps Up Coastal and Infrastructure Security Amid Indo-Pak Tensions
Operation Sindoor Triggers High Alert Across Key Installations
Bhubaneswar, May 10 — In the wake of heightened military conflict between India and Pakistan, Odisha has stepped up security measures across its vast coastline and critical infrastructure. A day after Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi expressed concerns over potential maritime threats, the state police have deployed unprecedented security protocols, particularly around vital installations.High Alert Following Operation Sindoor
Odisha Police announced on Saturday that round-the-clock patrolling has been initiated along the 480-kilometre-long coastline. Security forces are rigorously inspecting trawlers and monitoring all suspicious activities. “We are always ready to prevent any terrorist attack. We are vigilant and committed to public safety,” the Odisha Police stated on social media platform X.The heightened alert follows the Indian Army’s ongoing Operation Sindoor, aimed at neutralizing threats from across the border. The state’s police force has synchronized its efforts accordingly, focusing on both coastal defense and inland safety.
Vital Installations Under Tight Security
Enhanced security arrangements have been made at sensitive locations including:- Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur — Hosting critical missile testing facilities and the Proof and Experimental Establishment (PXE), a DRDO laboratory.
- Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri — One of India's holiest shrines, which now sees armed police deployment, rigorous frisking of devotees, anti-sabotage sweeps, and full CCTV surveillance.
- Hirakud Dam, Sambalpur — Asia’s longest earthen dam is under strict watch.
- Paradip Port, Jagatsinghpur — A key maritime hub, now operating under high alert.
- Ordnance Factory, Bolangir and INS Chilka, along with Army Air Defence College, Gopalpur and Indian Rare Earths Limited (IERL), Chhatrapur are also receiving heightened surveillance.
National Security Guard Reviews Puri Temple Security
A specialized NSG team visited the Shree Jagannath Temple on May 5–6 to review crowd control protocols, entry-exit points, and emergency response systems. Puri SP Vinit Agrawal confirmed that hotel owners have been instructed to maintain meticulous guest records and report any suspicious activity. Meanwhile, regular vehicle checks and community vigilance efforts are being actively pursued.Airports and Railway Stations on Alert
Security has been intensified at Biju Patnaik International Airport (Bhubaneswar) and VSS Airport (Jharsuguda). Passengers are undergoing multi-layered security checks and are advised to arrive early for their flights.Railway stations have also come under the security net, with armed personnel stationed at entry and exit points, and all coaches being inspected with metal detectors. The public has been urged to report any suspicious individuals.
Maritime Communities Mobilized
Fishing communities along Odisha’s coast have been roped in to monitor any unusual sea movement. They are serving as the first line of civilian defense in cooperation with the marine police and coast guard.CM Flags Maritime Risk
Chief Minister Majhi had earlier flagged the state's vulnerability, given its strategic assets and long coastline. He confirmed there is no specific threat to the Jagannath Temple, but cited the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu & Kashmir as a reason for exercising utmost caution.With this multi-tiered security framework now in place, Odisha joins the national effort in ensuring vigilance and preparedness amid growing regional tensions.