Dhaka, April 29 (V7N) — Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has unveiled an extensive roadmap to transform the Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) into a high-tech, modern maritime force. Speaking at the force’s headquarters in Agargaon to mark the 31st founding anniversary and "Coast Guard Day 2026," the Minister detailed plans to significantly increase manpower and integrate advanced surveillance technology to safeguard the nation’s blue economy.

The Minister announced that the BCG has already begun its technological shift with the induction of three surveillance drones and a dedicated ground control station. This move is aimed at enhancing real-time monitoring of coastal and inland waterways.

In terms of hardware, the Minister highlighted several key procurement and construction projects:

International Cooperation: With support from JICA, the construction of one multi-role response vessel and two offshore patrol vessels is currently underway.

Domestic Shipbuilding: An agreement has been signed with Khulna Shipyard for bulletproof high-speed boats, and a project is active to replace nine aging vessels with new patrol boats built in local shipyards.

Infrastructure: A modern dockyard will be established in Gazaria, Munshiganj, to ensure the force has self-sufficient maintenance and repair capabilities.

Future Assets: The government plans to procure helicopters, maritime surveillance systems, and rescue drones to bolster rapid-response operations.

To meet the growing security demands of the Bay of Bengal, the Home Minister revealed a proposal to increase the Coast Guard’s strength to approximately 10,000 personnel. To support this expanded force, land acquisition is currently ongoing in Mirpur (Baunia) and Purbachal to provide adequate accommodation for members and their families.

During the ceremony, Minister Salahuddin Ahmed awarded medals to 14 BCG members for their exceptional bravery and dedicated service. The honors included the Bangladesh Coast Guard Medal, the President Coast Guard Medal, and their respective service equivalents.

Reflecting on the force's history, the Minister noted that the BCG was established on February 14, 1995, under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia. He described the force as a "symbol of trust" and a "Guardian at Sea," praising its indispensable role in maintaining law and order in riverine and coastal regions.

The event, which included a welcome address by Director General Rear Admiral Md Ziaul Hoque and remarks from Senior Home Secretary Manzur Morshed Chowdhury, concluded with the Minister planting a sapling at the headquarters—symbolizing the growth and future sustainability of the force. High-ranking military and civil officials from both home and abroad were in attendance to witness the documentary presentation showcasing the BCG's evolving capabilities.

END/WD/RH