PM Modi to Inaugurate Vizhinjam Port

PM Modi Inaugurates Vizhinjam Port in Kerala: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will officially commission India’s first deepwater transshipment port at Vizhinjam in Kerala today, marking a major milestone in transforming India into a global shipping hub and reducing logistical costs.

Vizhinjam: India’s First Deepwater Transshipment Port

The Vizhinjam International Seaport, located in Kerala and operated under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, marks a significant advancement in India’s maritime infrastructure. Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd operates the port with a 28.9% stake, while the Kerala government holds a majority 61.5% share, and the Union government owns 9.6%. The port, strategically located near major international shipping routes, began limited operations last year and recently made history by receiving MSC Türkiye—one of the largest cargo ships in the world—becoming the first Indian port to handle such a large vessel.

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As India’s first full-fledged deepwater transshipment port with a natural depth of 18 to 20 metres, Vizhinjam eliminates the need for costly dredging and can dock large “mother vessels” just one kilometre from the shore. Until now, India has relied heavily on foreign ports like Colombo, Singapore, and Jebel Ali for transshipment, resulting in higher costs and longer transit times. Nearly 75% of India’s transshipment cargo has passed through foreign ports, leading to an estimated annual loss of $200–220 million. By enhancing domestic capacity and reducing dependence on foreign terminals, Vizhinjam aims to reverse this trend.

The port’s location offers multiple logistical advantages. It lies just 10 nautical miles from the busy east-west international shipping route, allowing global cargo ships quick access. Onshore, it connects well—only 2 km from a national highway, 12 km from a major rail line, and 15 km from Trivandrum airport—making cargo movement more efficient. Additionally, minimal coastal sand movement (littoral drift) reduces long-term maintenance costs, enhancing its viability and operational efficiency.

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Vizhinjam to Drive India’s Maritime Growth

Vizhinjam port is currently equipped to handle 1 million containers annually and plans to expand capacity by an additional 6.4 million TEUs over two more phases. Once fully operational, it is expected to significantly reduce India’s logistics costs, improve shipping efficiency, and boost competitiveness in global trade. India is also developing similar deepwater ports in Vadhvan, Maharashtra, and Great Nicobar Island, further enhancing its maritime infrastructure. With 13 major and 217 non-major ports, India’s maritime logistics sector is undergoing a transformative shift, with Vizhinjam positioned at the forefront.