Security Tightened in Maharashtra After Suspicious Boat Spotted Near Revdanda Coast

Mumbai, July 1 — Security forces have been placed on high alert along Maharashtra’s Raigad coastline after a "suspicious" boat was detected near Revdanda late Sunday night. The vessel, which was identified on the Indian Navy's radar system, is believed to be a Pakistani fishing boat, according to initial reports.

The detection triggered a coordinated security response involving multiple agencies, including the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and local police units. The boat was last located approximately two nautical miles off the Korlai coast in the Revdanda area, officials confirmed.

Navy Detects Suspicious Vessel on Radar

Officials said the suspicious boat was first spotted by a naval radar system scanning the Arabian Sea. The intelligence raised concerns of a potential security threat, leading to the immediate deployment of surveillance and quick-response teams.

“A suspicious boat was identified on the radar system and appears to be a Pakistani fishing vessel. Confirmation will be possible only after interception,” a senior official told PTI.

Massive Security Response Along the Raigad Coast

In response, the Raigad Police, Quick Response Team (QRT), Bomb Detection and Disposal Squad (BDDS), and the Indian Navy and Coast Guard quickly mobilized at the coastline. Additional police personnel were deployed in the district to monitor the situation and maintain vigilance across the region.

Senior officials, including Raigad Superintendent of Police Anchal Dalal, arrived at the site to oversee the operation. SP Dalal attempted to reach the vessel via a barge but was forced to return due to unfavorable weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and strong winds.
 

Search Operation Hampered by Bad Weather

Authorities reported that search and interception efforts have been slowed due to the monsoon conditions along the coast. High tide, low visibility, and relentless rain have complicated efforts to reach the vessel for inspection.

“We are closely monitoring the radar readings and trying to establish the vessel’s exact location. Weather is making it difficult, but all agencies are on alert,” said a police official at the scene.

 

Maritime Security on High Alert

Given Maharashtra's past experiences with coastal intrusions, especially the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks which were launched from the sea, the state treats any suspicious maritime activity with utmost seriousness.

This incident has raised fresh concerns over coastal security protocols, especially in sensitive regions like Raigad, which lies close to key urban and industrial hubs.

No Confirmation Yet on Boat’s Identity
As of Monday evening, the boat had not yet been intercepted, and authorities said the exact nature, origin, and intent of the vessel remain unknown.

“We will only know whether it’s indeed a Pakistani fishing boat or something more serious after it’s boarded and examined. Until then, full precautions are being taken,” a Navy official said.

The state government has also been briefed, and relevant intelligence agencies have been roped in to assist with the ongoing probe.

 

Conclusion: Vigilance Continues Along the Coast

 

While no definitive threat has been established yet, the authorities continue to maintain high alert along the Konkan coast. Maritime surveillance has been intensified, and the situation is being monitored on an hourly basis.

The incident underscores the importance of robust coastal surveillance systems and inter-agency coordination in maintaining national security.