Efforts are on a war footing at the Kochi port to complete the various works by November 15 for the Volvo Ocean Race stop over.

The work includes the three storeyed office and other structures being put up at an estimated cost of about Rs 70 core in the port area, Port Chairman, N Ramachandran, told reporters here.

The Volvo Ocean Race, which has already been flagged off from Alicante in Spain would stopover at Cape Town, Kochi, Singapore, Oingdao in China, Rio de Janeiro, Bostan, Galway (Ireland), Goteborg and Stockholm before finishing at St Petersburg.

"All arrangements for the stopover at Kochi is in full swing. The Volvo authorities have expressed satisfaction over the work undertaken for the 'Volvo Ocean Race village' so far,"he said.

Finishing touches are being given to the Race village office and all preparations are as per schedule, he said.

The port is extending the BTP jetty by about 150 M from the existing 200 M and a Marina is being fabricated at Mumbai, which would be attached to the jetty, to enable the yachts to berth.

The Volvo Ocean Race will arrive at Kochi port on December three for rest and will be here till December 13.

Their families would also be flying down to Kochi.

During the 10 days a host of cultural activities have been planned, including a 'Rice Boat Race' and a cricket match.

The Indian Navy and Yachting association are planning some events, including an expedition from Kochi to Lakshadweep, he said.