President launches Coast Guard Force

Chaminda PERERA in Galle

President Mahinda Rajapaksa launched the Sri Lanka Coast Guard Force at a solemn ceremony at the Galle Harbour yesterday.

This Coast Guard Force will protect the coastal belt around the country and maritime zone in extent of 21,700 square kilometres and maritime economic zone of 465,800 square kilometres within the country's territorial water.

The Coast Guard Force has also been tasked to assist Sri Lanka fishermen in distress while fishing in the deep sea and provide security to the ships transporting goods and passengers. The establishment of Coast Guard Force in Sri Lanka will help curb drug trafficking and human smuggling activities in Sri Lankan waters.

President Rajapaksa presented a scroll carrying the message of the establishment of the Coast Guard Force to Coast Guard Department Director General Rear Admiral Daya Dharmapriya.

Rear Admiral Dharmapriya also presented special mementoes to President Rajapaksa and Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa in recognition of their service for the establishment of the department.