THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) headquarters has given its approval to a long pending proposal to set up an an ICG air wing at Thiruvananthapuram airport, which could help in rescue operations during mishaps in the sea off Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam coasts. According to sources, the new air wing would be commissioned within a few months. A Dornier aircraft and a Chetak helicopter would be stationed in the new air wing.
The ICG had sought space at the old domestic terminal of Thiruvananthapuram airport a few years back for setting up the air wing. Though the Airports Authority of India (AAI) granted its nod to the proposal, there was no response from ICG thereafter. Hence the AAI recently shot off a letter to ICG asking for its decision. Subsequently, ICG initiated steps for physically acquiring about 1000 square feet space. Sources said that the ICG also planned to acquire more land adjacent to the airport for setting up its own facility, including a hangar.
The new air wing would be attached to the Vizhinjam ICG station and it would have jurisdiction over Thiruvananthapuram and Kollam coasts. The high fishing activities as well as presence of tourist spots like Kovalam and Varkala necessitates the service of an air wing. At present in case of any mishaps in the sea, the services of rescue aircraft and helicopters from ICG air wing in Kochi are sought. With the international seaport coming up, there is a need to enhance coastal security. Hence the setting up of an air wing in Thiruvananthapuram was a move in the right direction, sources said.
