The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) is seeking permission from the Adani Group to utilise a 120-metre berth at the new international seaport in Vizhinjam. This strategic move is designed to enhance the surveillance capabilities over the southern peninsula and improve response times for maritime rescue operations, particularly in light of the rising incidents of fishing accidents at sea.
The ICG’s request, if granted, would be a temporary measure until the completion of a dedicated berth at the Vizhinjam old port. The Adani Group has yet to respond positively to the ICG’s request. The ICG is currently using a berth allocated by the Kerala Maritime Board at the Vizhinjam old port, which is insufficient for accommodating larger vessels. The existing facilities only support a fast patrol vessel and three IB/IC class ships, which limits the ICG’s operational capabilities. Despite initial reluctance, Adani Group has indicated that the request might be reconsidered in the port’s second or third phase of development, by which time the new berth at the old port is expected to be operational.
The development of the new berth at the Vizhinjam old port has faced delays due to the prolonged presence of the abandoned tugboat MV Brahmekshara, which sank in 2018. The tugboat, which had been stuck in the port due to a legal dispute, was finally removed and auctioned off in October 2022. Following its removal, construction for the new 120-metre berth commenced, with an anticipated completion by March 2025. This new infrastructure is critical for bolstering the operational readiness of both the ICG and the Indian Navy in the southern region, including the southern tip of Kerala and northern Tamil Nadu.
The Indian Coast Guard’s request for docking space at the Vizhinjam seaport underscores the pressing need for improved maritime surveillance and rescue capabilities in the region. While the current facilities are inadequate, the planned infrastructure improvements promise to significantly enhance operational efficiency once completed. The resolution of this issue will play a crucial role in strengthening maritime safety and response capabilities in southern India.
