Govt tightens coastal security: Tripathy

Chennai, Mar 5 (UNI) The Tamil Nadu government has tightened coastal security and will not give a foothold to any extremist or terrorist organisation, Chief Secretary L K Tripathy asserted today.

In the wake of the recent seizure of an explosives-laden boat, reportedly belonging to the LTTE, patrolling had been streamlined and strengthened along the entire coastline, he told press meet here.

The government was also interacting with various Central security agencies in this regard and steps had been taken to set up marine police stations to keep a close watch on the coast, he added.

He said Tamil Nadu had a long coastline of 1,076 km with as many as 385 jetties, giving easy access to the state coast from the East.

Mr Tripathy said the seizures had been effected due to strict vigil maintained by security forces.

On criticism that the government had given undue financial support to 'Chennai Sangamam', a cultural festival organised by a private organisation, he said the festival was welcomed by art lovers and it was worth making it an annual event.

Tourism Secretary Iraiyanbu said there was precedent for the government supporting cultural events organised by private parties.

He said the government had only spent Rs 28.17 lakh towards advertisements and Rs 80,000 for a hoarding for 'Chennai Sangamam.' More UNI