Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to inaugurate the Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala on May 2. Positioned near Thiruvananthapuram, this landmark project is India’s first semi-automated transshipment port and a major leap for the country’s maritime sector.
Announcing the development, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan stated that Vizhinjam Port positions the state firmly on the global maritime map. “With 265 vessels and 5.48 lakh TEUs handled since the start of operations, Vizhinjam is a game-changer for Kerala,” he posted on X.
Here are 10 key facts about the project:
- Multi-Purpose Design: The port is tailored for container transshipment and also supports multi-purpose and break-bulk cargo operations.
- First Greenfield Port by a State Government: This is India’s first Greenfield port initiated by a state government with an investment exceeding ₹18,000 crore.
- Economic Impact: It is expected to significantly boost Kerala’s economy by generating employment, increasing trade, and attracting global investment.
- Strategic Location: Located just 10 nautical miles from one of the world’s busiest international shipping lanes, it offers a natural edge as a transshipment hub.
- Natural Deep Draft: Vizhinjam has a naturally deep draft of 18 metres close to the shore, allowing it to handle ultra-large next-generation container vessels without requiring dredging.
- Operated by Adani Group: The project was awarded to Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd under a 2015 concession agreement with the Kerala government.
- High-Tech Automation: Equipped with advanced automation systems, the port ensures quick vessel turnaround and is capable of handling Megamax containerships.
- Operational Milestones: Trial operations began on July 13, 2024, with full commercial operations starting December 3, 2024.
- Cargo Records: Vizhinjam has handled 5.36 lakh TEUs in a short span and led all ports on India’s southern and western coasts in cargo movement in February and March 2025.
- Future Expansion: All four phases of the port are expected to be completed by 2028. Revenue sharing with the Kerala government will begin from 2034 once the port is fully operational.
The Vizhinjam project is seen as a turning point for India’s logistics and trade landscape, poised to reduce dependence on foreign ports for transshipment and make India a self-reliant maritime hub.
