Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways announced plans to boost lighthouse tourism under Maritime India Vision (MIV) 2030 and Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 in India during a stakeholders meeting organised by the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships in Vizhinjam, Kerala.
Lighthouse
- A lighthouse is a tower, building, or other type of structure designed to emit light from a system of lamps and lenses and used as an aid to navigation for mariners and local fisherman. Lighthouses mark dangerous coastlines, hazardous shoals, reefs, safe entries to harbours.
- Currently, India has established & maintaining 194 lighthouses along the coastal line & Islands of Indian waters.
Historical Role
- Ancient India: The Rigveda and Satapatha Brahmana mention navigation in the Purva (East) and Paschima (West) Samudra. The Rigveda also describes sea voyages by Varuna and Vashistha.
- Mythological Connections: The story of ‘Manu,’ being rescued from a flood, highlights early Indian knowledge of sea and navigation.
- In the 7th century A.D., Pallava king Narasimhavarman-I established a lighthouse at Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), using log fires to guide ships.
- This lighthouse offers stunning views of the shore temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Significant Modern Marvels
| Lighthouse | Description | Image |
| Tangasseri Lighthouse, Kollam, Kerala | The tallest lighthouse in Kerala, constructed by the British. It is painted in white and red bands, making it a fascinating sight. | |
| Mahabalipuram Lighthouse,Tamil Nadu | An old lighthouse from the colonial period, built next to an ancient lighthouse commissioned by Mahendra Pallava of the Pallava dynasty. Though non-functional, it is open for visitors to explore. | |
| Kaup Beach Lighthouse, Udupi, Karnataka | The existing lighthouse was constructed by the British in 1901 and has undergone various improvements over the years, including the installation of different lighting equipment. | |
| Vizhinjam Lighthouse, Kovalam, Kerala | A lighted beacon was established in nearby Kolachal in 1925, and a day mark beacon was provided at Vizhinjam in 1960. A major lighthouse was completed in 1972 it is One of the oldest and most picturesque lighthouses in India. | |
| Fort Aguada Lighthouse, Goa | A well-preserved Portuguese structure and one of Goa’s prime attractions. It offers dreamy sea views, making it a must-visit spot. | |
| Chandrabhaga, Odisha. | Chandrabhaga lighthouse, located near Konark temple, has endured severe cyclones like the Super Cyclone (1999), Phailin (2013), and Fani (2019). |
Role of Modern Lighthouses in India
- Modern lighthouses continue to guide ships, mark ports, and send signals, serving as valuable backups to GPS technology.
- After the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, lighthouses were equipped with state-of-the-art radars for coastal surveillance.
- The Indian government established the Automatic Identification System (AIS) to facilitate communication between fishermen and lighthouses.
- The Marine Aids to Navigation Act of 2021 aimed to promote the historical and cultural value of lighthouses.
- Events like the Indian Lighthouse Festival in Goa showcase the heritage and tourism potential of these structures. Many lighthouses are now tourist attractions, offeringhistorical insights and stunning views.