NEW DELHI: All ports in Gujarat have been put on high alert after inputs that "Pakistani commandos are likely to infiltrate into Indian Territory through the Kutch area, through sea route to create communal disturbance or terrorist attack in Gujarat," according to Port Trust officials. According to a statement by Adani Ports and SEZ, "inputs had been received from coast guard station that Pakistan-trained commandos have entered the Gulf of Kutch through the Harami Nala creek area and they are believed to be trained with underwater attacks." 

"It is therefore directed to take utmost measures of security and prevent any untoward situation in Gujarat state. It is advised that all ships at Mundra Port take utmost security measures and maintain a vigilant watch," the Adani statement says. 

Another alert signed by the Signal Superintendent of Deendayal Port Trust, earlier known as Kandla Port Trust in Kutch, has asked for enhanced security measures that include "highest state of readiness and vigilance", the deployment of maximum possible assets and personnel to plug vulnerable areas, tracking suspicious individuals or boats near the coast, patrolling along the coast and checking of all vehicles in offices or homes nearby. 

The alert comes in the backdrop of tension between India and Pakistan over the government's decisions on Kashmir, including the end of special status to Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, and belligerent statements from Pakistan over the past few weeks. 

On Monday, Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh had cited intelligence reports to claim that Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed is training members for underwater attacks. "We have received intelligence that the underwater wing of Jaish-e-Mohammed is being trained for attacks. We are keeping track of it and can assure you we are fully prepared to foil any such plan," news agency ANI quoted Admiral Singh as telling reporters in Pune. 

7 COMMENTS NDTV had reported on an intelligence alert to the Navy last year of the possibility of the Jaish using deep sea divers to attack Navy warships. The alert indicated that a group of terrorists were trained in deep sea techniques in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, and could be planning to target strategic assets of the navy. 

Source: NDTV