India’s maritime infrastructure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
This state-of-the-art facility is poised to transform India’s position in global shipping and logistics.​ Developed under a public-private partnership, the port is a collaboration between the Government of Kerala and Adani Ports. The first phase of the project, completed at an estimated cost of ₹8,867 crore, includes the construction of a deep-water terminal capable of handling ultra-large container vessels. The port’s strategic location, just 10 nautical miles from major international shipping routes, positions it as a critical hub in global trade.​
One of the port’s standout features is its natural depth of 24 meters, eliminating the need for extensive dredging and enabling it to accommodate vessels with drafts exceeding 18 meters. The breakwater, extending nearly three kilometers and standing 28 meters tall, ensures safe and efficient port operations, even during adverse weather conditions.​ Technologically, Vizhinjam sets a new benchmark. It boasts India’s first AI-powered Vessel Traffic Management System, developed in collaboration with IIT Madras, and fully automated yard cranes for seamless cargo handling. These advancements are expected to significantly reduce turnaround times and enhance operational efficiency.​
In the trial phase, the port successfully handled over 272 large vessels and more than 550,000 containers. By early 2025, it emerged as the leading port on India’s southern and western coasts for container cargo handling, managing over 100,000 TEUs monthly. The inclusion of Vizhinjam in MSC’s Jade Service further underscores its growing importance in global maritime trade.​ Looking ahead, the port’s expansion plans are ambitious. By 2028, the next construction phase is expected to be complete, increasing the port’s annual capacity to at least 3 million TEUs. This phase will cost ₹10,000 crore and will be entirely funded by Adani Ports. Additionally, the development of a multi-modal hub with direct road access to National Highway 66 and Kerala’s first cloverleaf interchange will further enhance connectivity. A railway link connecting the port to the national network is also in the pipeline.​
The inauguration of the Vizhinjam International Seaport marks a pivotal moment in India’s maritime history. It not only strengthens Kerala’s economic position but also contributes to the nation’s broader goals of sustainable development and global competitiveness in trade and logistics.​ As the port continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to India’s commitment to infrastructure development, technological innovation, and economic growth.
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