<p data-path-to-node="5"><b data-path-to-node="5" data-index-in-node="21">V.O. Chidambaranar (VOC) Port Authority</b> in Thoothukudi has successfully conducted and cleared its <b data-path-to-node="5" data-index-in-node="119">2nd Annual Statement of Compliance Audit under the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code</b>, reaffirming the Major Port’s adherence to global maritime safety, vessel security, and emergency preparedness benchmarks.</p><p data-path-to-node="6">The comprehensive compliance inspection, administered under International Maritime Organization (IMO) mandates and Directorate General of Shipping guidelines, evaluated the terminal’s physical security measures, surveillance networks, vessel access control mechanisms, and coordinated contingency protocols across its port facility perimeter.</p><h3 data-path-to-node="8">Key Operational Highlights &amp; Maritime Security Benchmarks</h3><ul data-path-to-node="9"><li><p data-path-to-node="9,0,0"><b data-path-to-node="9,0,0" data-index-in-node="0">Comprehensive Security Framework Assessment:</b> The audit reviewed the port’s implementation of its Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP), inspecting physical access control gates, waterborne perimeter patrols, CCTV surveillance coverage, and cargo screening systems across all operational berths.</p></li><li><p data-path-to-node="9,1,0"><b data-path-to-node="9,1,0" data-index-in-node="0">Seamless Regulatory Alignment:</b> Clearing the 2nd annual verification validates VOC Port’s compliance with SOLAS (Safety of Life at Sea) Chapter XI-2 mandates, ensuring uninterrupted global shipping access and seamless compliance for international ocean carriers calling at the terminal.</p></li><li><p data-path-to-node="9,2,0"><b data-path-to-node="9,2,0" data-index-in-node="0">Coordination with Maritime Agencies:</b> The inspection verified real-time communications, intelligence-sharing frameworks, and response coordination between the Port Security Officer (PFSO), the Indian Coast Guard, Coastal Security Police, and customs authorities.</p></li><li><p data-path-to-node="9,3,0"><b data-path-to-node="9,3,0" data-index-in-node="0">Boosting Global Trade Confidence:</b> Maintaining an active and verified ISPS Statement of Compliance reinforces VOC Port's standing as a secure, high-integrity transshipment and EXIM hub along South India’s primary international maritime corridors.</p></li></ul>