THOOTHUKUDI: To enhance patrolling along the southern coast in the Gulf of Mannar region and ensure better sealine communication, the Indian coast guard station at Thoothukudi is to get two more offshore patrolling vessels in the next two years.
Disclosing this to media persons during the inauguration ceremony of the new administrative building for the coast guard station here on Monday, coast guard commander and Inspector General of the eastern region, Rajan Bargotra said that one more offshore patrolling vessel is to be included to add to the existing fleet strength within this year to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the services provided by the Indian coast guard to fishermen operating from Kanyakumari, Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts apart from general surveillance activities.
"Yet another fast patrol vessel is planned to be based at Tuticorin station by 2020," added the coast guard commander.
He also said that the Indian coast guard is to set up a new aviation unit at Thoothukudi once the ongoing land acquisition process is over.
"Once the aviation unit is set up in Thoothukudi it will cater to fixed wing operation, which will be utilised not only for surveillance but also for providing assistance to fishermen in times of emergency," added Rajan Bargotra.
