Mumbai, Jan. 27 (ANI): In a bid to urge fishermen to play significant role in the maritime security, Coast Guard officials flagged off a bike rally along the coast of Maharashtra on Wednesday.

The bikers will pass through colonies of fishermen during the six day long Maharashtra State Coast Motorcycle Rally which will conclude on February 01.

Considering the security concerns post 26/11, the rally was aimed at making fishermen ‘Eyes and Ears’ of maritime security agencies so as to strengthen coastal security network.

Nitin Raut, Minister of Environment, Dairy Development and Fisheries, Maharashtra, said that rally was aimed at maintaining better the communication between fishermen and the coast guards.

“After looking at the 26/11 incident, I welcome the Indian Coast Guard’s efforts for a better communication between fishermen and the motorcycle riders. As they (motorcycle riders) pass through their colonies, it will instill confidence in the fishermen also. The step which the Indian Coast Guard has taken, we (the Maharashtra government) should have taken that earlier,” said Raut.

The militants responsible for the Mumbai attacks November in 2008, that killed 179 people in coordinated assaults, entered the country through the sea route. (ANI)