Home Ministry of Transport Vizhinjam Harbour Gets State-of-the-Art ICG Jetty for Faster Vessel Deployment

Vizhinjam Harbour Gets State-of-the-Art ICG Jetty for Faster Vessel Deployment

Vizhinjam Harbour
Vizhinjam Harbour

JUNE 08: In a major boost to coastal security infrastructure, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) inaugurated a dedicated jetty at Vizhinjam Harbour in Kerala. The new 76.7-metre-long, modern jetty is designed to significantly improve the deployment and turnaround efficiency of ICG vessels, enhancing their operational readiness for critical missions such as coastal surveillance, search and rescue, anti-smuggling efforts, and fisheries protection.

The inauguration ceremony was led by Director General (DG) of the Indian Coast Guard, Paramesh Sivamani. He underscored the strategic importance of this facility in reinforcing India’s maritime security, particularly along the southwestern coastline. The jetty’s proximity to major international shipping routes—just 10 nautical miles away—further enhances its role in safeguarding the region’s maritime interests. It is also located adjacent to the Vizhinjam International Transshipment Deepwater Port, further amplifying its operational relevance.

DG Sivamani remarked that the jetty will serve as a critical node in the broader coastal security architecture by enabling quicker mobilization of resources in emergencies. He also noted that the infrastructure would significantly enhance India’s preparedness against evolving maritime threats and contribute to a stronger surveillance network.

The event was attended by several dignitaries and senior officials, including Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, Commander of ICG Region (West), and representatives from various stakeholders such as Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd, the Government of Kerala, the Kerala Maritime Board, the State Police, the Indian Army, Port Authorities, Adani Ports Pvt. Ltd., and the Fisheries Department.

The establishment of this new jetty aligns with the Government of India’s ongoing push to modernize coastal infrastructure and strengthen maritime security under the broader national vision of safeguarding India’s 7,500-km-long coastline.

With this addition, the Indian Coast Guard’s operational capabilities in the southern maritime theatre are set to see a marked improvement. The jetty not only supports strategic defence goals but also promises to enhance coordination among multiple maritime stakeholders and reinforce India’s position as a key guardian of the Indian Ocean Region.

This development reflects the ICG’s commitment to ensuring safe, secure, and clean seas around the Indian subcontinent.