Thiruvananthapuram | 7 June 2025 — In a major boost to India’s maritime security infrastructure, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on Saturday inaugurated a new dedicated jetty at Vizhinjam Harbour in Kerala. The state-of-the-art facility is set to enhance coastal surveillance, improve operational response time, and fortify India’s southwestern maritime frontier.
Director General Paramesh Sivamani, AVSM, PTM, TM, commissioned the 76.7-metre-long jetty, which has been specifically designed to berth Coast Guard vessels. Strategically located just 10 nautical miles from key international shipping lanes and adjacent to the Vizhinjam International Transshipment Deepwater Seaport, the jetty is expected to become a critical hub for maritime security operations in the region.
“This facility marks a major step forward in strengthening our coastal security architecture and ensuring faster response capabilities,” said DG Sivamani at the inaugural ceremony. “It will play a vital role in safeguarding our maritime interests.”
The dedicated jetty is poised to significantly enhance the ICG’s mission readiness for coastal surveillance, search and rescue (SAR) operations, anti-smuggling patrols, and fisheries protection. With quicker vessel deployment and improved coordination with other maritime agencies, the new infrastructure aims to reduce response time during emergencies and enable wider area coverage.
Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, PTM, TM, Commander of Coast Guard Region (West), was also present at the event. The ceremony was attended by senior officials and dignitaries from Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd (VISL), the Government of Kerala, Kerala Maritime Board, Indian Army, Adani Ports Pvt. Ltd., State Police, Port Authorities, and the Fisheries Department.
The inauguration of the jetty marks a significant milestone in the Indian Coast Guard’s commitment to strengthening India’s coastal defenses and supporting the nation’s growing maritime economy.
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