![]() The Middle Ground Coastal Battery was once part of a reef, like the nearby Oyster Rock. After the setting up of the British East India Company in Bombay, the Middle Ground Island was fortified in 1682 to restrain the sea piracy in the area. Later a marine police force comprising of Bhandaris were appointed there to keep an eye on the pirates who used to board ships. The Bhandaris were chosen for their loyalty, honesty and local knowledge. With their yellow turbans and blue trousers, the police were a formidable sight. After piracy moved to the South China Sea, about two hundred years ago, the police were disbanded and the Royal Navy gained control of the Middle Ground. |