from daijiworld's special correspondent

Panaji, Jul 26: Mumbai bomb blast will not have any adverse affect on the ongoing process to install a hotline between India and Pakistan connecting maritime forces of both the neighbouring countries, stated director general of Indian Coast Guard Dr Prabhakaran Paleri.

Talking to reporters after commissioning ICGS Meera Behn, an extra-fast patrol vessel, armed for search-and-rescue operation mid-sea, Paleri reiterated Indian Coast guard's plans to have a hotline between both the nations.

"The process is on… There has been certain progress on it," stated Paleri. On being queried about the inordinate delay in setting up the vital project, Paleri reacted,"Everything goes on as per national policy."

The ambitious hotline between two nations is expected to sort out minor maritime issues between both the countries including firing on fishermen.

The Indian Coast Guard, according to the DG, was well equipped to meet any challenge in the sea. "We are right now operating with the lean manpower and vessels but our personnel are tough enough to face the challenge," he said.

According to him, the Indian Coast Guard would be 150-vessel and 57-aircraft (five different flying machines) strong force by 2007.

Meanwhile, the DG on Tuesday commissioned ICGS Meera Behn, an extra-fast patrol vessel, which will monitor off-Gujarat coast.