1. Overview — Kamarajar Port Limited & ISPS Compliance

2. Regular ISPS Audits at Kamarajar Port

Kamarajar Port Limited is committed to continuous compliance with the ISPS Code through a structured, multi-tier audit programme. Regular security audits are conducted to verify that the Port Facility Security Plan (PFSP) remains effective, current, and fully implemented across all areas of the port.

The port undergoes both internal audits — carried out by the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) and senior security personnel — and external audits conducted by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India, as the Designated Authority under the ISPS Code framework.

Audit findings are documented, tracked, and addressed through a corrective action process, ensuring that any identified gaps are remedied within stipulated timelines and the PFSP is updated accordingly.

Port Facility Security Plans shall be reviewed and updated regularly, and audited at intervals of not more than five years, or when there are significant changes to the port facility or its operations.
— ISPS Code — Part A, Regulation 10 / SOLAS Chapter XI-2

Audit Framework — Five-Step Cycle

01. Internal Security Audit
Conducted by the PFSO and designated security personnel at Kamarajar Port. Internal audits assess adherence to the PFSP, review of access control logs, drill records, security incident reports, and training compliance. Frequency: at least annually.

02. External Audit by DGS (Designated Authority)
The Directorate General of Shipping, Government of India, as the ISPS Designated Authority, conducts external audits of the Port Facility Security Plan. DGS verifies that the PFSP is being fully implemented, maintained, and updated as required under Part A of the ISPS Code.

03. Port Facility Security Assessment (PFSA)
Periodic Port Facility Security Assessments are conducted to identify threats, vulnerabilities, and risks across all port areas — including berths, cargo handling zones, storage areas, waterside approaches, and utilities — providing the basis for PFSP updates.

04. Drills, Exercises & Post-Exercise Review
Security drills and full-scale exercises are conducted periodically in coordination with CISF and DGS. Each drill is followed by a structured debrief and corrective action review, the outcomes of which are incorporated into audit records and the PFSP update cycle.

05. Corrective Action & PFSP Amendment
Non-conformances and observations identified during audits are logged and tracked. Corrective actions are implemented within defined timelines. Significant changes are reflected in formal amendments to the PFSP, submitted to DGS for approval as required.

3. Declaration of Security (DOS)

In compliance with the ISPS Code, a Declaration of Security (DOS) is completed for every ship/port interface at Kamarajar Port Limited. The DOS is a formal agreement between the Ship Security Officer (SSO) and the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) that sets out the respective security responsibilities of both parties during the vessel's stay at the port.

The DOS is initiated by the ship or by the port as applicable, prior to the commencement of ship/port operations. It specifies the activities to be undertaken, the security measures to be applied, and is signed by both the SSO and PFSO (or their authorised representatives).

When is a Declaration of Security Required?

Under the ISPS Code, a DOS is required in the following circumstances:
The ship is operating at a higher security level than the port facility.
There is an agreement between Contracting Governments requiring a DOS.
There has been a security threat or incident involving the ship or the port facility.
The ship is arriving from, or has called at, a port not subject to SOLAS Chapter XI-2.
Ship-to-ship (STS) activities are conducted.

Practice at Kamarajar Port:
At Kamarajar Port, a DOS is executed as standard practice for all international vessel calls, reflecting the port's commitment to the highest standard of maritime security compliance. Completed DOS records are maintained at the port facility for the minimum period required under the ISPS Code.

DOS — Activities & Responsibilities Matrix

Note: The above matrix is indicative. Actual DOS is completed and signed by the SSO and PFSO prior to commencement of ship/port operations for each vessel call.

4. Security Screening Capabilities at KPL

Kamarajar Port Limited is equipped with state-of-the-art security screening infrastructure to detect and prevent the introduction of weapons, explosives, contraband, and other prohibited items into the port facility and aboard vessels. Screening operations are conducted in full compliance with the PFSP and ISPS Code requirements, and are staffed by trained CISF personnel.

4.1 Container Screening System

KPL is equipped with a Container Scanning System to screen import and export containers for concealed contraband, weapons, undeclared cargo, and other security threats — without the need for manual unpacking. Container screening is a critical layer of the port's security framework.

4.2 Baggage Screening System

All baggage and personal effects of persons entering the port facility — including crew members, port workers, contractors, and visitors — are subject to X-ray screening and physical security checks at all port entry gates.

4.3 Surveillance & Access Control

Comprehensive CCTV surveillance covers all berths, cargo areas, entry/exit gates, and restricted zones. The CISF Control Room provides 24/7 centralised monitoring and rapid response capability.

5. Additional Port Security Operations

Pre-Arrival Security Notification (PASN)
All vessels calling at Kamarajar Port must submit a mandatory Pre-Arrival Security Notification at least 24 hours before arrival, providing details of security level, last ten ports of call, and any security incidents during the preceding voyage.

ISSC Verification
Every arriving vessel's International Ship Security Certificate (ISSC) is verified by the PFSO. Vessels without a valid ISSC or arriving from non-ISPS ports are subject to enhanced security checks before port entry is permitted.

Restricted Zone Enforcement
The port is divided into clearly demarcated restricted zones. CISF personnel enforce access control at all zone boundaries, permitting only authorised personnel with valid passes to enter. Restricted zone boundaries are physically secured with fencing and signage.

Security Training & Drills
PFSO, security officers, and CISF personnel participate in regular ISPS-mandated security training. Drills are conducted to test response to threats across all three security levels and the results are used to continuously improve security procedures.

Records & Reporting
All security activities — audits, drills, DOS documents, security incidents, and changes in security level — are recorded and maintained at the port in compliance with ISPS Code record-keeping requirements, available for inspection by the DGS and authorised officials.

Access Control Infrastructure — CISF, RFID & Biometric Systems
Security at Kamarajar Port is maintained by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). All main entry and exit points to the port are equipped with an integrated RFID Pass System and Biometric System for the authenticated entry and exit of both personnel and vehicles. Access is granted only to verified individuals holding valid RFID-enabled passes, supplemented by biometric verification, ensuring a robust and tamper-resistant access control regime at all times.

Under Vehicle Scanner System — Entry & Exit Gates
An Under Vehicle Scanner System will be installed at the entry and exit gates of Kamarajar Port. The installation of this system is currently in progress. Once operational, this system will enable automated scanning of the undercarriage of all vehicles entering and exiting the port, enhancing security checks and helping to prevent concealment of contraband, explosives, or other prohibited items beneath vehicles.

Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) — A First in Indian Ports
An Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC) has been installed at Kamarajar Port Limited. KPL holds the distinction of being the first port in India to have an ICCC system, enabling advanced and integrated security monitoring alongside real-time port operations management. The ICCC provides a unified platform for surveillance, threat detection, incident response, and operational coordination, ensuring seamless integration of security and port management functions around the clock.

Sea Front Security — Dedicated CISF Patrol Boat
The sea front area of Kamarajar Port is monitored by a dedicated patrolling boat operated by CISF on a 24 × 7 basis. This continuous waterside patrol provides real-time surveillance of the harbour approaches, berths, and coastal perimeter, ensuring prompt detection and response to any unauthorised maritime activity or intrusion attempt from the sea side.

Intelligent Surveillance System (ISS) — Small Boat Detection (First in India)
Kamarajar Port Limited is in the process of installing an Intelligent Surveillance System (ISS) — an advanced capability designed to detect small, low-profile watercraft such as kattumarams well before they can intrude into the harbour. KPL will be the first port in India to install such a system for the detection of small boats. The ISS sensors will be installed at the North and South Breakwaters, providing early warning coverage across the full seaward approach to the harbour. This system will significantly enhance KPL’s maritime domain awareness and the ability to pre-empt intrusions by small, difficult-to-detect watercraft.

Port Facility Security Advisory Committee (PFSAC) — Multi-Agency Coordination
PFSAC meetings are chaired by the Chairperson of Kamarajar Port on a regular basis, in accordance with DG Shipping circulars. These meetings bring together a wide range of security and regulatory organisations including Customs, Immigration, Indian Navy, Indian Coast Guard, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Local Police, Fisheries Department, Intelligence Bureau (IB) — both Central and State — Coastal Security Group, and other maritime security organisations. This multi-agency forum ensures coordinated and comprehensive security governance across all dimensions of port facility security. Security drills are also carried out as required under the ISPS Code.

6. Contact — Port Facility Security Officer

For all ISPS-related matters at Kamarajar Port — including Declaration of Security (DOS) arrangements, pre-arrival security notifications, security audit enquiries, and emergency security reporting — please contact the Port Facility Security Officer (PFSO) or the CISF Control Room.

Security incidents, suspicious activities, and unattended objects within the port must be reported immediately on the Port Emergency Line, available round the clock.