Lighthouses to be armed with AIS: Minister

ALAPPUZHA: Union Minister of State for Power K C Venugopal said on Thursday that all the lighthouses in the state will equipped with automated identification systems (AIS) to ensure the safety of the fishermen.Speaking at a function organised as part of the 150th anniversary of the Alappuzha lighthouse near here the other day, he said that the new device would help the mariners contact the control room round-the-clock.An exhibition on maritime safety and security systems will be held from April 22 to 25 as part of the celebrations. A museum building and a guest house will also be constructed near the lighthouse, Venugopal said.The minister added that the Central Government has initiated steps to construct a new lighthouse at Valiyazheekkal.Another proposal to erect one at Thottappilly will be discussed with Union Minister for Shipping G K Vasan, who will come down to inaugurate the 150th anniversary of the lighthouse on April 22, he said.“The Central and State Governments would begin measures for the surveillance of the ships passing through India’s territorial waters,” he said, and added that maritime security equipment will be fitted on all fishing vessels in the state. Municipal chairperson Mercy Diana Macedo presided over the function.Lighthouses and Light Ships director-general A M Sooraj, ADM K P Thampi, RDO A Gopakumar and Bishop Stephan Athipozhiyil also spoke.