Thiruvananthapuram: The construction of an artificial shoreline at Shangumugham for the Navy Day celebrations on December 4 has been completed. The shoreline has been recreated to host strength demonstrations at sea, with indications that President Droupadi Murmu will be the chief guest at the event.

The original shoreline, extending from the four-lane road leading to the domestic airport to the vicinity of the Aarattu Mandapam, was eroded due to heavy sea waves. To restore it, a 370-metre-long artificial shoreline was constructed, with an emergency section of 180 metres built specifically for the Navy’s display. The remaining section will be completed after the strength demonstration.

The event will feature naval ships performing at sea which will be observed by dignitaries from the pavilions along the recreated shore. Officials from the Southern Naval Command discussed the construction with the state government, with ₹14 crore allocated for the project. Security measures, including surveillance cameras, have been put in place under the supervision of the Navy and police.

Construction details:

The shoreline was rebuilt by moving sand to a predetermined depth, layering the base with the smallest stones, followed by stones of various sizes, and reinforcing the structure with concrete. Sand was then laid on top to complete the artificial shore.

According to Major Irrigation Superintending Engineer S Bindu, the shoreline has been designed so that senior military officials and other dignitaries can access the pavilions safely via designated security vehicles.