Rameswaram, March 14 -- The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has deployed ships and an aircraft to ensure the safety of fishermen travelling to Katchatheevu Island for the annual two-day festival at St. Antony's Church.

Commanding Officer of ICG Station Mandapam, Commodore B Vinay Kumar, said that over 3,400 pilgrims are heading to the Sri Lankan island for the event.

"The Katchatheevu festival is held annually, and this year it takes place on March 14 and 15. A total of 3,421 pilgrims are proceeding to Katchatheevu," Commodore Kumar told ANI.

"All the arrangements have been made for them...ICG ensures that all pilgrims wear life jackets for the entire duration of the passage," he added.

Deputy Commandant Abhishek Yadav, commanding officer of...