AZHIKODE LIGHTHOUSE AND DGPS STATION

Azhikode Lighthouse is situated about 8 km west of Kodungallur (Cranganore) an important town in the region on NH-17. There is a pucca road up to Azhikode ferry crossing on Perivar river about 2 km south of Azhikode. The lighthouse station is about 2 km from Azhikode connected by a link road. The 30 km road south from Periyar crossing terminates at Vypin ferry station from where it is possible to cross over to Ernakulam /Cochi by ferry boat service. Kodungallur was part of Cochin State at the time of independence. The principality of Cranganore was earlier under Zamorin, the ruler of Malabar: It came in focus in 18th century due to its strategic location during the conflict between the Dutch, Rajah of Cochin and Zamorin.. There did not exist any light at the present location prior to this lighthouse. A mast was provided at the mouths of Periyar River.The construction of lighthouse tower was completed in 1982. The Radio beacon (Nautel make) equipment meant originally for Cochin lighthouse was shifted to Azhikode lighthouse which was installed at the station and put on the air on 10th September 1981. The lighthouse equipment supplied by M/s. J Stone (India) was installed in 1982 and was commissioned into service on 30th April 1982. Subsequently, the incandescent lamp was replaced by 230V 400W Metal Halide lamp on 30th September 1997. The direct drive system was also incorporated at the time.

The DGPS station is situated at Azhikode and station is approachable by rail up to Iringalakkuda and from there by road 28 Km to lighthouse. Local facilities available are police station 8kms, Govt. dispensary 5kms (Athanickal), Post office 2Km Azhikode, Primary school, High school 5km Eriyad 30 Meter high Square RCC Lighthouse tower painted in black and white alternate 5 bands and Light was commissioned in 30th April 1982 M/s J.Stone & Co, Calcutta, make of optic having focal length of 300 mm (4th Order large) Revolving type consists of 03 nos panels having lens, dioptric and catadioptric portions. Pedestal is of ball bearing type rotates with the help of a dual stepper motor (20Kg.cm) assembly with controller, out of which one is standby. Main Light Comprises of a Cluster of 03 Nos150W/230V Metal Halide Lamps. Each MH lamp is operated with 900VA Sukham UPS connected with 12V 150Ah Tubular inverter batteries. Total 04 nos batteries of 12V 150Ah Tubular inverter batteries are used, 03 nos for MH lamp and 01 no for stepper motor.

Master Ledger of AZHIKODE LIGHTHOUSE AND DGPS STATION(1.07 MB)