Odisha Police Builds ‘Bridge of Trust’ Along Coastline

Odisha Police has intensified its efforts to safeguard coastal communities by launching a series of community policing programmes across the state.

Organised by marine police stations, these initiatives aim to build trust, cooperation, and social bonds between law enforcement and residents in sensitive coastal regions.

Recent awareness drives have engaged fishermen, students, youth groups, and women self-help groups, covering issues such as safety awareness, protection of women and children, cybercrime prevention, youth empowerment, and coastal security.

Communities have also been sensitised about the dangers of drug abuse, anti-social activities, and the importance of reporting suspicious movements along the coast.

Highlighting threats like illegal infiltration, narcotics smuggling, human trafficking, and terrorism-related activities, marine police officers are working closely with the Indian Coast Guard to expand the reach of these programmes.

Regular contact with fishermen and coastal residents ensures timely information exchange and stronger security arrangements.

Police teams are visiting villages, gathering feedback, and helping resolve local social issues, reinforcing police–public relations.

Director General of Police Yogesh Bahadur Khurania described community policing as a “bridge of trust” between citizens and law enforcement, expressing confidence that greater public participation will reduce crime and enhance peace.

So far, 303 community policing programmes have been conducted across 18 marine police stations, with officials confirming that the initiative will continue in the coming days.