Bhubaneswar: The Odisha government has provided a special drone camera to the Dhamara Marine Police Station in Bhadrak district to monitor and prevent Bangladeshi infiltration.
The drone, worth Rs 1 crore 33 lakh, was handed over to the marine police station by the Odisha Police, Bhubaneswar, under the direction of the Bhadrak Superintendent of Police.
According to reports, the drone camera is a vital tool in detecting infiltrators within a 15-kilometer radius. Weighing 8 kg, it can capture sharp images from altitudes of 400 meters at night and up to 1 kilometre during the day. With an impressive flight endurance of 2 hours, it can soar through the skies like an eagle, reaching an altitude of 1,000 meters in just 10-15 minutes.
Marine Police are utilizing the drone camera to monitor and patrol the coastal areas, especially around Dhamara port, to prevent infiltration and unauthorized activities. They conduct daily patrols for up to eight hours using boats and trawlers, ensuring the safety and security of the region.
The drone camera will be a game-changer in preventing infiltration and monitoring coastal areas, especially around Dhamara port, where fishermen frequently venture into the deep sea. Its 15-kilometer radius will help identify and track infiltrators, including those from enemy countries or Bangladesh, who might attempt to sneak in through the coastal route. The drone’s capabilities will be particularly useful at night, allowing authorities to detect suspicious vessels or individuals. Drone operator at the Marine Police Station, this technology will significantly enhance surveillance and help curb illegal activities, according to drone operator Benudhar Mallick.
Marine Police Station Officer, Priya Darshini Khatua, said, “The drone camera, provided by Odisha Police in August 2025, is a crucial tool in our efforts to prevent Bangladeshi infiltration and monitor coastal activities around Dhamara port. We use it 2-3 times a week, covering a 15-kilometer radius, to gather vital information and support our daily 8-hour patrols. The drone camera is a vital tool in detecting infiltrators within a 15-kilometer radius. So far, we have not caught any Bangladeshi infiltrators, but we are regularly doing patrolling. The drone cannot physically catch the infiltrators; it only helps us provide information regarding infiltration of Bangladeshi or any other suspicious activities.”
