Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh BJP State President P.V.N. Madhav on Tuesday expressed serious concern over the increasing incursions by Tamil Nadu fishermen into Andhra Pradesh's coastal waters, demanding stringent action against those responsible. In a statement issued from the BJP State office, he said the problem had reached alarming proportions along the coastlines of Nellore, Ongole, and Bapatla districts.
Speed Boats From Cuddalore, Karaikal Causing Alarm
Madhav alleged that fishermen arriving in speed boats from Cuddalore and Karaikal were illegally entering Andhra Pradesh's coastal waters and intimidating local fisherfolk. He referred to a recent incident in the Juvvaladinna area of Nellore district, where local fishermen had intercepted Tamil Nadu boats found to be operating illegally and engaging in acts of intimidation, leading to a tense standoff in the region.
Overnight Release of Seized Boats Raises Questions
The BJP State president said that despite the matter being brought to the attention of the concerned authorities, the government's response had fallen short of expectations. He was particularly critical of the overnight release of the intercepted boats and their return to Tamil Nadu, stating that such actions only deepened suspicions and left local fishermen feeling unprotected. The absence of any punitive action against those responsible, he said, had fuelled a growing sense of insecurity among the coastal communities.
Strengthen Marine Police, Revive Coastal Security Grid
Madhav outlined a series of measures he said were urgently needed to address the situation. These included the modernisation and strengthening of marine police stations, the induction of local fishermen as Home Guards, and enhanced surveillance in coordination with the Coast Guard. He also called for the revival of the Coastal Security Technical System that had been in place in 2010, and suggested that retired Navy personnel and local fishermen be redeployed under the framework to bolster coastal vigilance.
Coordinate With Tamil Nadu for Lasting Solution
Urging the State government to take firm action against those who enter Andhra Pradesh's waters illegally and resort to intimidation, Madhav also called for coordination with the Tamil Nadu government to address the issue at an inter-State level. He appealed to the Andhra Pradesh government to find a permanent solution to a problem that had persisted for several years and continued to undermine the livelihoods and safety of coastal communities.
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