Key Points
- Historic Launch: PM Narendra Modi to inaugurate Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Port in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on May 2 at 11 am, marking India’s entry into the global transshipment market.
- First-of-its-Kind Infrastructure: Vizhinjam is India’s first dedicated deepwater container transshipment port, featuring a 20–24 meter natural depth and state-of-the-art automation.
- Strategic Location: Situated just 10 nautical miles from major East-West shipping lanes, the port is expected to attract global cargo traffic currently routed via Colombo, Singapore, and Jebel Ali.
- Economic Impact: The ₹8,900 crore project is projected to create over 100,000 jobs, reduce logistics costs, and retain billions in shipping revenue within India.
- Operational Success: Even before formal commissioning, Vizhinjam handled 285 ships and over 593,000 TEUs, outperforming global benchmarks.
Vizhinjam: India is set to witness a historic leap in its maritime and logistics sector as Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurates the Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Port in Kerala on May 2. Developed at a cost of ₹8,900 crore under a public-private partnership led by Adani Ports, Vizhinjam is not just a port-it’s a strategic game changer for India’s global trade ambitions.
A First for India: Deepwater Transshipment Powerhouse
Vizhinjam is India’s first dedicated deepwater container transshipment port, boasting a natural draft of up to 24 meters-enabling it to handle the world’s largest container vessels without extensive dredging. Its proximity to one of the world’s busiest shipping routes (just 10 nautical miles away) positions it as a direct competitor to Colombo, Singapore, and Jebel Ali, which currently handle about 75% of India’s transshipment cargo.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Capacity
The port is South Asia’s first semi-automated facility, featuring fully automated yard cranes, remote-operated ship-to-shore cranes, and an AI-powered vessel traffic management system developed with IIT Madras. The first phase offers a capacity of 1 million TEUs (Twenty-foot Equivalent Units), with expansion plans to reach 6.2 million TEUs, including additional berths, cruise terminals, and liquid bulk facilities.
Operational Milestones Ahead of Inauguration
Even before its official commissioning, Vizhinjam has surpassed expectations:
- Handled 285 ships and 593,000 TEUs during its trial phase, including visits from global shipping giants like MSC and Maersk.
- Outperformed established ports in India and the region, with record monthly throughput and rapid turnaround times.
- Environmental clearance secured for further expansion, ensuring timely completion by 2028.
Economic and Strategic Benefits
- Retaining Shipping Revenue: By capturing transshipment traffic previously routed through foreign ports, Vizhinjam is expected to save India $200–400 million annually in logistics costs and foreign exchange.
- Job Creation and Investment: The port is set to create more than 100,000 direct and indirect jobs and attract over ₹20,000 crore in future investments.
- Boosting Kerala’s Economy: As the largest-ever state investment in a port, Vizhinjam will stimulate regional growth, tourism, and related industries.
Historic and Cultural Significance
Vizhinjam’s legacy as an ancient maritime hub is being revived, linking Kerala’s spice trade history with modern shipping and global commerce. The port’s location near Kovalam beach also positions it as a unique blend of trade, culture, and tourism[7].
Inauguration Ceremony: Dignitaries and Protocol
The grand event on May 2 will see the presence of PM Modi, Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Shipping Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, and a host of state and national leaders. The ceremony, lasting 90 minutes, will include an inspection of the port’s advanced control systems and a demonstration of container handling operations.
The inauguration of Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Port marks a transformative moment for India’s maritime sector. With its world-class infrastructure, strategic location, and cutting-edge technology, Vizhinjam is set to make India a global shipping powerhouse, reduce dependence on foreign ports, and drive economic growth for Kerala and the nation.
