Coast Guard to be made 3-dimensional by adding aviation wing, says PM

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced on Sunday that the Bangladesh government plans to enhance the Bangladesh Coast Guard into a three-dimensional force by incorporating new technology and modern equipment, reports UNB.

"We have already granted initial approval for the establishment of an Aviation Wing, which will include the purchase of 2 helicopters to elevate the Coast Guard into a three-dimensional force," she stated.

The prime minister made this announcement while speaking at the 29th founding anniversary celebration of the Bangladesh Coast Guard at their headquarters in Agargaon, located in the city.

She also mentioned that the government has recently approved a new project to construct 9 replacement ships for the Bangladesh Coast Guard.

Additionally, approval has been granted for the acquisition of 4 more OPVs and 2 maritime version helicopters for deep-sea patrolling by the Coast Guard to ensure the safety of individuals involved in sea-based professions and waterways.

"In order to modernize and strengthen the Bangladesh Coast Guard, advanced technology ships, maritime surveillance systems, hovercrafts and high-speed boats are going to be added to this force very soon," she said.

The prime minister expressed her optimism that through the addition of all these ships with modern technology and the development of communication systems, this force will acquire more capabilities to face the challenges of the 21st century and will play a significant role in building a smart Bangladesh.

In addition, she said, plans have been adopted to increase the current strength to 15,000 manpower gradually as per the Vision 2030 and Vision 2041 to modernise the force to provide blue economy and security at sea.

"To build the smart Bangladesh I believe that this force will play special role," she said.

Hasina also inaugurated Bangladesh Coast Guard Vsatnet Communication System and newly constructed six physical infrastructures at the BCG stations at Kutubdia, Maheshkhali, Mirsarai, Sandwip, Nidraskina and Shahpari Outpost.

The PM also conferred 10 Bangladesh Coast Guard Medals, 10 Bangladesh Coast Guard (Service) Medals, 10 President Coast Guard Medals and 10 President Coast Guard (Service) Medals to at least 40 BCG officers, sailors and civilians for their bravery.

The theme of this year's founding anniversary has been set as Smart Bangladesh, Smart Coast Guard.

Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, Public Security Division Secretary of the Home Ministry Md Mustafizur Rahman and BCG Director General Rear Admiral Mir Ershad Ali were present at the function.