Odisha Police hoist Tricolour on uninhabited Udabali Island

Ahead of the 77th Republic Day, the Odisha Police on Thursday hoisted the National Flag on the uninhabited Udabali Island in the Bay of Bengal, underscoring the state’s commitment to safeguarding its coastline.

Director General of Police Y B Khurania unfurled the tricolour a few kilometres off Dhamra Port in the presence of senior police and security officials. He paid tribute to the courage, sacrifice and dedication of personnel tasked with protecting the coastal frontier.

On the occasion, Khurania announced a comprehensive Rs 149-crore long-term plan aimed at strengthening and modernising coastal security infrastructure in the state. The plan includes upgrading surveillance systems, enhancing marine patrolling capabilities and improving coordination among various security agencies.

Officials said the symbolic flag-hoisting on the remote island was meant to reaffirm sovereignty and highlight the strategic importance of Odisha’s coastline ahead of Republic Day.

The Odisha Police have been stepping up efforts to bolster maritime security in view of emerging challenges and the growing significance of coastal and port security in the region.