The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has opened a state-of-the-art jetty at Vizhinjam Harbour in Kerala as part of an effort to improve marine security along the country’s southwest coast. The new 76.7-meter berth, which is anticipated to greatly increase operational readiness for coastal patrol and surveillance operations, was commissioned under the direction of Director General Paramesh Sivamani.

The facility, which is expected to cost Rs 750 million to build, will allow Coast Guard vessels to deploy and turnaround more quickly. The new dock will improve mission efficiency in important areas including search and rescue, anti-smuggling operations, and fisheries protection, the ICG said in an official statement.

The jetty is strategically significant because it is located next to the Vizhinjam International Transshipment Deepwater Port and only 10 nautical miles from important international shipping channels. The station, which offers enhanced reaction to maritime threats, is a crucial contribution to the region’s coastal defense architecture, according to DG Sivamani.

Senior officials from Vizhinjam International Seaport Ltd., the Kerala Government, the Kerala Maritime Board, the State Police, the Indian Army, Port Authorities, Adani Ports Pvt. Ltd., and the Fisheries Department were present at the event, along with Inspector General Bhisham Sharma, Commander of ICG Region (West).

The Indian Coast Guard began with just seven ships in 1977 and has since grown to become a strong maritime force with around 190 surface ships. Its continued dedication to protecting India’s 2.01 million square kilometer Exclusive Economic Zone is demonstrated by the new infrastructure at Vizhinjam.