Udupi: Panic briefly gripped Malpe Port on Tuesday evening as the sound of a bomb blast startled tourists and fishermen. However, the chaos was part of a planned mock drill conducted to prepare for emergency situations amid heightened national security concerns.
The simulation, which involved a loud detonation and a staged fire, left five people “seriously injured”, all part of the drill. Fishermen working on the dock and tourists enjoying the seaside fled in alarm when the explosion was heard. Firefighters arrived on the scene with sirens blaring and quickly “extinguished” the flames, while mock casualties were rushed to hospital.
Multi-agency drill tests emergency response
The joint mock drill was organised by the Malpe Fishermen’s Association in collaboration with the Coastal Security Police, Health Department, Fisheries Department, Fire Department, and Customs. The exercise aimed to test the preparedness and coordination of various departments in case of a real maritime security threat.
A firefighting demonstration was conducted at the port, simulating the dousing of flames and rescue of the injured. Coastal Security Police boats patrolled nearby waters to showcase their operational alertness.
Officers including Police Inspectors Pramod, Sitaram, and PSI Femina were present at the site alongside a large contingent of personnel. The operation drew attention from the public, many of whom gathered to observe the exercise.
Malpe Port a key strategic location
Speaking after the drill, Coastal Security Police Superintendent Mithun highlighted Malpe Port’s strategic importance. “Malpe is one of Karnataka’s 12 major ports and a vital fishing hub. This mock drill was aimed at ensuring that we are well-equipped to respond to any untoward incident,” he said.
He further advised fishermen to follow security guidelines, including going out to sea in groups of three boats and maintaining heightened vigilance, especially in sensitive zones.
Such drills are crucial for ports like Malpe, which see heavy fishing and passenger traffic. Authorities are intensifying maritime surveillance and community awareness in response to ongoing geopolitical tensions and the need for coastal security.